President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed strong support for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling ordering Israel to halt its offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

The ruling on Friday, prompted by a request from South Africa, calls for an immediate end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the area.

In a post made on the social media platform 'X' yesterday, President Muizzu welcomed the decision, emphasizing the importance of adherence to international law.

He underscored that this step is crucial for alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

This marks the third instance this year where the ICJ's 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders to reduce the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza.

Although these orders are legally binding, the court relies on voluntary compliance from member states due to the lack of enforcement mechanisms.

President Dr. Muizzu also reiterated the Maldives' long-standing position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

The ICJ, commonly referred to as the  World Court, serves as the United Nations' chief judicial body for resolving disputes between states.

Its decisions are definitive and obligatory, though enforcement has been sporadic historically.

In January of this year, the court delivered a significant ruling that instructed Israel to take all possible measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, without mandating an end to the ongoing conflict.

Israel has repeatedly rejected the genocide allegations as unfounded, arguing that its military actions are defensive operations aimed at Hamas militants responsible for the October 7 attacks on Israel.

The Maldives' firm position and President Muizzu's appeal for compliance underscore the international community's increasing concern over the persistent conflict and the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza.