Amman, April 28 (Petra) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's representative Elinor Hammarskj?ld stressed on Monday the unlawfulness of Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory under the international law.

In a hearing statement at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, she said the court concluded that Israel’s assertion of sovereignty over, and its annexation of certain parts of the Occupied Palestinian Territory constitute a violation of the prohibition of the acquisition of territory by force.

Hammarskj?ld, Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel, said the court has authoritatively determined Israel is not entitled to sovereignty over any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory on account of its occupation.

She also pointed out that United Nations centers enjoy protection under international law, adding that the enactment of the "Law to Cease UNRWA Operations" by the Israeli Knesset on October 28, 2024, appears to constitute an extension of sovereignty in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.

Citing Israel's obligations as a member of the United Nations, Hammarskj?ld stressed the inviolability of UN premises, the general obligation of cooperation with the United Nations, and the impartiality of certain UN entities.

She also said no humanitarian aid or commercial goods had been allowed into the Gaza Strip since March 2, which has devastating humanitarian consequences, adding that 295 United Nations personnel have died in Gaza since the 7th?of October, 2023.

//Petra//SS

28/04/2025 16:15:28