In a significant legal development, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the highest legal body under the United Nations, is set to make a ruling on Friday regarding interim measures against Israel. The charges revolve around allegations of genocide committed against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The case was brought forth by South Africa, and its representatives are seeking an order for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. However, it is expected that the ICJ ruling will focus primarily on emergency measures rather than addressing the broader question of genocide. The potential for a comprehensive ruling on the matter could lead to a lengthy legal process, possibly lasting for years.

Genocide, as defined by the Genocide Convention, entails the intentional destruction of a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, either in whole or in part. It can also encompass situations where a party subjects a group to conditions of life with the aim of bringing about the group's destruction.

Previous cases, such as the killings of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica in 1995, have been deemed genocides by judicial bodies, including the ICJ.

According to figures released by the Hamas-run Palestinian Ministry of Health on Wednesday, 25,700 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since the start of their war in Gaza in response to an attack by Hamas in October. The Israeli military's intention to be more targeted in its operations on "terror hotspots" is currently being implemented, though concerns remain over the failure to limit civilian casualties. In some instances, attacks have occurred in zones previously marked as safe for civilians.

The Biden Administration has acknowledged the need for Israel to refrain from killing innocent civilians while avoiding labeling its actions in Gaza as genocide. Vedant Patel, the deputy State Department spokesperson, stated earlier this week that they believe the accusation of genocide against Israel to be unfounded. However, Patel emphasized that Israel should take further steps to minimize the impact on Palestinian civilians, stressing the significance of preserving lives.

As the ICJ prepares to deliver its ruling on interim measures against Israel, the international community closely watches the proceedings. The outcome of this landmark decision will shape the trajectory of the legal battle surrounding the allegations of genocide in Gaza.