Israel has continued its military operations in Gaza, specifically targeting the southern city of Rafah, despite a recent order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to cease its offensive. The ICJ's ruling came after South Africa accused Israel of committing genocide in Rafah.

The court's order, which is legally binding but lacks enforcement mechanisms, demanded that Israel immediately halt its military actions in Rafah, release hostages held by Palestinian militants, and keep the Rafah crossing open for humanitarian aid.

In response, Israel's National Security Adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, asserted that Israel would not conduct operations that create conditions leading to the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population. Meanwhile, Hamas welcomed the ICJ ruling but criticized the exclusion of other Palestinian territories from the order.

Despite the ruling, Israeli airstrikes continued, hitting Rafah and other parts of the Gaza Strip, leading to significant civilian displacement and casualties.

The conflict, which began with a deadly Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, has resulted in extensive casualties on both sides, with thousands killed and many more injured or displaced.

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with meetings in Paris and engagements from international leaders, including the CIA and French President Emmanuel Macron, seeking to negotiate a ceasefire.

Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court's prosecutor has sought arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with widespread displacement, food shortages, and non-functional hospitals exacerbating the crisis.