Recommendation 17

The FCDO needs to be led by the law without fear or favour. In July 2024, the International Courts of Justice handed down its advisory opinion on the legality of Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This advisory opinion sets out various obligations in respect of third states, including the obligation to ensure Israel complies with IHL. It is unacceptable that the Government has failed to issue a formal response nearly a year after the ruling was given. (Conclusion, Paragraph 40)