The Peace Palace building of the International Court of Justice a few hours before the court delivers its ruling in the case brought by South Africa against Israel. It comes as Israeli forces continue a military campaign in the Gaza Strip that has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives. The World Court lacks the means to directly enforce its pronouncements, but its rulings can often deal heavy reputational blows to the accused. The World Court called for the immediate release of the captives. They say that Hamas forces have intentionally entrenched themselves in non-combatant facilities in the Gaza Strip, such as schools and hospitals, and are using civilians as human shields.

---

Persons: Israel, Israel's, John Kirby, Benjamin Netanyahu, Netanyahu Organizations: International Court, Israel, South, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Security, Hamas, country's Department of International Relations, Cooperation, United Nations Security Council Locations: South Africa, Israel, Gaza, U.S, Africa