GAZA/THE HAGUE - In the latest developments at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Israel is set to defend itself against accusations of genocide in Gaza. The ICJ hearings were initiated by South Africa, alleging that Israel's actions violate the 1948 Genocide Convention. The case specifically addresses South Africa's request for an emergency order to suspend military actions in Gaza during the court proceedings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected calls from right-wing ministers to permanently occupy Gaza, emphasizing that Israel has no intention of displacing the civilian population. Meanwhile, the United States rejected South Africa's genocide claims but urged Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues in Gaza, Israel faced warnings from Jordan and Egypt against re-occupying the territory, with appeals for uprooted residents to be allowed to return home. Despite Israel's pledge to withdraw some troops and shift to a more targeted campaign, strikes in Gaza intensified.

In a broader regional context, U.S. and British warships in the Red Sea repelled a significant attack from Yemen's Houthi movement, which claimed to support Gaza. The World Health Organization canceled a medical aid mission to Gaza due to security concerns, and the Palestinian Red Crescent reported casualties from Israeli strikes.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed support for a Palestinian state during his visit to the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where he discussed efforts to protect and aid civilians in Gaza with Palestinian leaders. Additionally, a senior White House adviser is expected to visit Beirut to ease tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.

As the situation unfolds, the international community remains engaged in diplomatic efforts, with the ICJ hearings shedding light on the legal dimensions of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.