The International Court of Justice issued interim rulings this month ordering Israel to take additional measures to prevent civilian harm in Gaza, finding preliminary grounds for considering genocide allegations brought by South Africa. Israel rejected the characterization while stating it is already taking steps to minimize civilian casualties. The US vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.
International condemnation of Israeli military operations has come from an unusually broad coalition including traditional allies in Western Europe who have suspended some arms shipments. The economic and diplomatic costs for Israel are growing, including sanctions from several countries, divestment campaigns affecting Israeli companies, and academic boycotts. The Israeli government has maintained that its operations are necessary to prevent future terrorist attacks and to recover hostages.
