The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has delivered its interim ruling on the emergency measures requested by South Africa in its genocide case against Israel over its war on the Gaza Strip. While the court did not order an immediate ceasefire, it directed Israel to take measures to prevent and punish direct incitement of genocide in the besieged strip. The ruling has sparked a range of reactions from various global actors.

In response to the ruling, Palestine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomed the ICJ's decision, highlighting that no state is above the law. Foreign Minister Riyadh Maliki emphasized that Israel failed to persuade the court that it is not violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. The statement called on all states to ensure respect for the ICJ's order, including by Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the other hand, criticized the ruling as "outrageous," asserting that Israel is engaged in a "just war."

South Africa hailed the ICJ ruling as a "decisive victory" for international law. The government expressed hope that Israel would not frustrate the implementation of the court's orders, and emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of Palestinians in Gaza. Meanwhile, Hamas, the ruling authority in Gaza, welcomed the court's ruling as an important development contributing to the isolation of Israel.

Reactions from various countries also poured in. The United States stated that the ICJ's ruling was consistent with its position that Israel has the right to take action, in accordance with international law, to prevent future attacks. Iran's Foreign Minister called for Israeli authorities to be brought to justice following the ruling, condemning their alleged actions as genocide and war crimes against Palestinians.

Other countries, including Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Spain, France, and Germany, expressed either approval for the ICJ's recommended measures or a call for Israel to comply with the ruling. The European Parliament emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages, while Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch highlighted the importance of enforcing the ICJ's orders to prevent further atrocities and protect the civilian population in Gaza.

While some Palestinians felt disheartened by the court's decision not to order an immediate ceasefire, others expressed gratitude to South Africa for bringing the case before the ICJ. The ruling has drawn attention to the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

The ICJ's interim ruling marks a significant development in the case against Israel's actions in Gaza. As various global actors respond to the verdict, its implementation and implications for the conflict remain key points of contention.