Indonesia Backs Palestine in ICJ Legal Action
Antara, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi has unequivocally affirmed the nation’s steadfast commitment to supporting Palestine in the face of the Israeli occupation. The minister declared that Indonesia will persist in implementing pragmatic measures to aid Palestine, with a specific focus on advocating for law enforcement through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This resolute stance underscores Indonesia’s dedication to the pursuit of justice and the peaceful resolution of the longstanding conflict, aligning with international legal mechanisms to address the challenges faced by the Palestinian people.
The minister made the statement during an expert discussion titled “Advisory Opinion at the ICJ: Efforts to Support Palestinian Independence through International Law Enforcement” in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Marsudi confirmed that Indonesia would deliver legal opinions to the ICJ following the United Nations General Assembly’s request that the international court provide an advisory opinion on the legal status and consequences arising from Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.
“Indonesia supports the UN General Assembly’s initiative to request an advisory opinion from the ICJ, as international law must be enforced,” she remarked, adding that Indonesia has delivered written statements to the court in July 2023 and will deliver oral statements later in February 2024.
The minister highlighted the importance of all parties respecting the Palestinian nation’s right of self-determination while noting that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory in the last seven decades will not erode the Palestinians’ right to independence.
“In the eyes of international law, various policies of Israel — including the annexation of Palestinian territory, establishment of settlements in the West Bank, and alteration of the status of Jerusalem — are illegal,” she pointed out.
Bearing that in mind, the minister underscored the need to put an immediate end to Israel’s unlawful acts and ensure accountability to investigate all violations committed by the occupier.
She then called on all countries to support Palestine by pushing the international community and the United Nations to reject Israel’s justification for its illegal acts.
Marsudi further noted that the discussion involving experts on international law is crucial to formulate comprehensive legal opinions that can prove blatant violations of international law committed by Israel in its acts against Palestine.
“Indonesia’s presence before the ICJ will serve as yet another diplomatic measure for supporting the Palestinian nation’s struggle for independence,” she concluded.
