Japan Condemns Annexation of Israel as Breach of International Law
Japan continues to speak out against the legal consequences of Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories as hearings take place at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. Mikanagi Tomohiro, representing Japan at the hearings, reiterated Japan’s support for the “two-state solution” and emphasized that the annexation of land through occupation goes against international law. He also highlighted the importance of complying with United Nations decisions as a path to permanent peace.
Oxford University International Law Professor Dapo Akande, speaking on behalf of Japan, emphasized that acquiring territory through military force is prohibited in international law. He further stated that annexing territory by force cannot be a proportionate response to an armed attack and that the right of self-defense cannot be used to gain additional territory.
The UN General Assembly has requested an opinion from the ICJ regarding the legal consequences of Israel’s occupation of Palestine since 1967, asking questions about Israel’s activities in Palestinian lands and their impact on the legal status of the occupation.
While advisory opinions given by the ICJ are not binding, they are taken into consideration by many states and organizations. In the past, advisory opinions have influenced the actions of states and companies, such as refraining from contributing to the construction of a wall in Palestinian territory after the ICJ deemed it illegal. Similarly, the ICJ’s opinion on unilateral declarations of independence in international law increased legitimacy and recognition of Kosovo’s independence.
If the ICJ’s opinion is that the occupation is against international law, it is likely that pressure on Israel will increase, and countries openly supporting it may be forced by the international community to reconsider their stance. The impact of the ICJ’s opinion could be significant in shaping the response to Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
