Israel Faces International Scrutiny Amid Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

Representatives from the United Nations and Palestinian territories have accused Israel in the UN International Court of Justice of violating international law. The accusations stem from Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. The UN argues that Israel, as an occupying power, has a clear obligation to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches the isolated and conflict-ridden region. The Israeli army (IDF) has been blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza's 2.3 million residents since March. Israel maintains it will not allow humanitarian shipments until Hamas releases all hostages. Hearings on Israel's obligations are ongoing until May 2nd. Amid escalating tensions, Israel has officially declared war on Hamas. Bombardments of the Gaza Strip have resulted in over 51,000 Palestinian casualties and 115,000 injuries, according to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health. Clashes continue, with Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah supporting Palestinian fighters and regularly clashing with Israel along the Lebanese border.