The International Court of Justice has issued a new order for Israel to prevent the worsening famine in Gaza, following a previous warning of genocide risk. The situation has deteriorated since the initial January 26 order, with over 6,600 deaths and nearly 11,000 injuries. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the crisis as a man-made catastrophe. The court reiterated its order for Israel to ensure urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza, emphasizing the necessity of land access over maritime and aerial routes.

The International Court of Justice has issued a new order demanding Israel to prevent famine in Gaza, following a deterioration of living conditions since their January 26 warning of a genocide risk. Over 6,600 deaths and nearly 11,000 injuries have occurred since the Israeli operation began. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as an appalling manmade disaster. The court's order requires Israel to cooperate with the UN to provide essential services and humanitarian aid to Gaza, emphasizing the importance of land routes for effective delivery. The order follows South Africa's request and does not mandate a ceasefire but notes the need for suspending military operations to allow aid entry.

The verdict in the case of Abdulaziz al-Hassan at the International Criminal Court remains pending. Al-Hassan, the former commissioner of the Islamic police in Timbuktu, is charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes during the 2012 occupation of northern Mali by Ansar Dine and AQIM. The verdict, initially scheduled for January 18, has been postponed indefinitely due to the illness of Judge Antoine Mindua, whose mandate has been extended until the trial concludes. If al-Hassan is found guilty, further hearings will determine the sentence, followed by potential appeals and reparations for victims.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, established post-World War II, aims to resolve international disputes through legal means rather than punishment. It has handled numerous cases involving territorial disputes, diplomatic immunity, and armed conflicts, with recent cases including South Africa v. Israel and Ukraine v. Russia. The ICJ's role reflects geopolitical dynamics, as countries seek alternatives to the UN's political institutions. The International Criminal Court, also in The Hague, faces criticism for its perceived lack of effectiveness in prosecuting war crimes, impacting its credibility.

South Africa has filed a motion with the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of causing famine in Gaza and violating the Genocide Convention. The motion follows a previous ICJ order for Israel to refrain from genocidal acts and ensure humanitarian aid access, which South Africa claims Israel has ignored. Israel defends its actions as self-defense against Hamas. South Africa seeks urgent ICJ intervention to halt hostilities and protect Palestinian rights.

South Africa has filed a new request with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on March 6, citing a 'terrifying' and 'indescribable' situation in Gaza, including the starvation deaths of at least fifteen Palestinian children in the past week. The request follows a previous ICJ order from January 26, which identified a 'plausible' risk of genocide in Gaza and instructed Israel to allow humanitarian aid access. South Africa accuses Israel of violating the genocide convention and ignoring the ICJ's order, and it seeks urgent action without further hearings. Israel defends its actions in Gaza as legitimate self-defense in response to a Hamas attack on October 7. South Africa's new request urges the ICJ to order a cessation of hostilities and the exchange of hostages and prisoners between Israel and Hamas, and for the 153 states party to the genocide convention to refrain from actions that could harm Palestinians' right to protection against genocide.

Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony, who has been evading capture since 2005 despite an international manhunt and a $5 million bounty by the United States, is to face in absentia proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on October 15. Kony is accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The ICC has been campaigning on Ugandan and regional radios to inform Kony of the upcoming procedure. The hearing is not a trial, which requires his presence, but a symbolic judicial acknowledgment of the alleged crimes and an assessment of the evidence gathered.

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for two senior Russian military officers, air force Lieutenant General Sergueï Kobylach and Vice Admiral Viktor Sokolov, for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Ukraine from October 10, 2022, to March 9, 2023. The warrants are confidential to protect witnesses and secure the investigation. The officers are accused of ordering attacks on civilian infrastructure and disproportionate strikes on potential military targets, causing excessive civilian casualties. Human Rights Watch praised the Court's announcement, highlighting the impact of the strikes on Ukrainian civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Russian commanders ordering strikes against civilians and essential Ukrainian infrastructure must know that justice will be served.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, established post-World War II, aims to resolve conflicts through international law rather than punishment. The court has handled numerous cases involving territorial disputes, diplomatic immunities, and accusations of genocide, reflecting global geopolitical dynamics. Current cases include South Africa vs. Israel, Ukraine vs. Russia, and Armenia vs. Azerbaijan. The ICJ's decisions, while final, are not always enforced. The article also critiques the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its perceived lack of effectiveness and credibility.

From February 19 to 26, representatives from fifty states and three international organizations presented their views to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the legality of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories since 1967. The ICJ has begun deliberations and will issue a non-binding advisory opinion in five to six months, as requested by the UN General Assembly in December 2022. The outcome could have significant diplomatic weight. Israel chose not to attend the hearings, and its allies, including the UK, Hungary, and Fiji, spoke on its behalf. The UK suggested the conflict was not a matter for the international community, while others argued it pertains to the world order established post-World War II. The ICJ's decision could potentially affirm the occupation's illegality, as previously denounced by UN reports and resolutions, and address the consequences of such a finding.

Israel defended itself at the International Court of Justice against accusations of genocidal intent towards Gazans, brought by South Africa. The defense argued that the conflict with Hamas is a 'war of necessity' and not aimed at exterminating Palestinians, despite significant casualties and destruction. The proceedings have sparked varied reactions within Israel, with the right condemning the hearings and the center viewing them as a distortion of justice. Israel's legal representative, Tal Becker, emphasized the defensive nature of the conflict and rejected the death toll figures provided by Gaza's health ministry.

Israel's defense at the International Court of Justice against South Africa's genocide accusations centers on the argument of a defensive war of necessity against Hamas. The hearings, broadcast nationally, have been met with widespread rejection in Israel, with officials and citizens viewing the war as a necessary response to the October 7, 2023, massacre. Israel's legal adviser, Tal Becker, emphasized the country's right to self-defense and denied genocidal intent despite significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. South Africa's demands include suspending military operations and improving humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

South Africa's lawyers presented their case to the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocidal behavior in Gaza. They argued that Israel's military actions, including bombings and forced evacuations, constitute genocide. The court hearings are a preliminary step before addressing the case's substance, with South Africa seeking urgent measures to halt Israel's military operations. The arguments focused on the genocidal acts, the targeted group, and the intent behind the actions, emphasizing that genocide is defined by intent rather than scale.

South Africa has accused Israel of violating the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, filing a complaint with the International Court of Justice. Pretoria claims it has an obligation to protect Palestinians in Gaza from destruction and has requested urgent measures to halt Israeli operations and ensure humanitarian access. The complaint details alleged genocidal actions by Israel, including the killing of civilians and creating conditions leading to their destruction. The Israeli government has rejected these accusations, calling them defamatory.

The Special Tribunal for Kosovo in The Hague, which has been detaining former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (UCK) since 2020, has tightened controls on visits to Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, and Rexhep Selimi after allegations of witness tampering. The trial of these leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the 1998-1999 conflict with Serbian forces has begun in April 2023. The prosecution has accused the UCK leaders of revealing protected witnesses' identities and spreading confidential testimony. The tribunal has previously sentenced UCK commander Salih Mustafa to 22 years in prison, and the trial of Pjeter Shala for war crimes is ongoing.

Denis Salas, a French magistrate and essayist, discusses the complexities of international law in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the war in Ukraine. He highlights the cautious approach of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in issuing arrest warrants, emphasizing the need for strategic timing and prudence. Salas contrasts the clear aggressor-aggressed dynamic in Ukraine with the more complex situation in Israel and Palestine, where the ICC prosecutor must navigate a delicate balance. The article underscores the ICC's dual role in prosecution and crime prevention, stressing the importance of context and strategy in its actions.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan's handling of cases involving Ukraine, Darfur, and Palestine is under scrutiny as he defends his budget at the UN. South Africa, the Comoros, Djibouti, Bolivia, and Bangladesh have pushed for action on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, threatening a potential withdrawal from the ICC treaty. The Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation are monitoring the investigation, highlighting Western hesitancy to support the probe compared to the Ukraine case. Israel has opposed ICC examination of the conflict, while Palestine, an ICC member since 2015, seeks justice for crimes since June 2014. A complaint from Israeli families against Palestinian attacks has also been lodged.

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, after visiting Israel, attended the annual assembly of the 123 State Parties to the International Criminal Court at the UN headquarters in New York on December 4th. He has until December 14th to defend his budget on major cases including Ukraine, Darfur, and Palestine. The 2023 assembly is expected to be contentious, with several countries urging the prosecutor to address the sensitive issue of Palestinian territory colonization and ongoing bombings in Gaza. The lack of Western support for the investigation into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict contrasts with the strong backing for the Ukraine case, raising concerns of double standards and threatening the ICC's legitimacy. The Palestinian Authority has been involved in lengthy proceedings to bring the case to the ICC, which has been stalled for nearly three years regarding crimes committed since June 2014 in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has affirmed the right of return for Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh in a ruling on November 17. The court ordered Baku to ensure that anyone who left Nagorno-Karabakh after September 19, 2023, and wishes to return can do so safely and quickly. Over 100,000 people fled the enclave due to the Azerbaijani military operation launched on that date. The ICJ also warned Azerbaijan against using force or intimidation that could cause residents to flee. The case, introduced by Armenia against Azerbaijan in September 2021 for racial discrimination, has not yet been fully argued, but interim measures have been ordered by the court.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is under pressure to issue arrest warrants for alleged war crimes and genocide in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Palestinian human rights organizations and international lawyers are calling for urgent action against Israeli political and military leaders, citing extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. The ICC's prosecutor, Karim Khan, has promised to protect Gaza's children, but faces criticism for inaction. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and ongoing human rights violations, with both Hamas and Israeli actions under scrutiny.

Three weeks after Hamas's terrorist attacks in Israel on October 7 and the beginning of Israeli retaliation in Gaza, the International Criminal Court's prosecutor, Karim Khan, reminded Israel of its obligation to comply with the laws of armed conflict. Khan, investigating since October 7, stated that preventing humanitarian aid could constitute a crime and that schools, hospitals, and mosques are protected sites. He called for the release of hostages, a serious violation of the Geneva Conventions. On October 29, Khan made a brief statement at the Rafah border crossing, following UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's plea for humanitarian access to Gaza on October 20. The ICC had opened an investigation into the 2014 Gaza war and the colonization of occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, but progress has been slow. Israel disputes the ICC's jurisdiction. Palestinian human rights advocate Raji Sourani criticized the prosecutor's slow progress, and Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki assured Khan of cooperation without confirming if it extended to the October 7 Hamas massacre. Legal experts, diplomats, NGOs, and UN experts have criticized Khan's silence since October 7.

The trial of Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb, has entered a new phase at the International Criminal Court. Accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes in Darfur during 2003 and 2004, the former Janjaweed militia leader has been on trial since April 2022. The defense, led by lawyer Cyril Laucci, argues that Abd-Al-Rahman was merely a pharmacist and not a militia leader. Laucci criticized Sudan for not cooperating with the court by denying visas and withholding requested documents. The defense also reproached the judges for not reporting Sudan's non-cooperation to the UN Security Council.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) announced the release of former Central African militia leader Maxime Mokom on October 19, 2023, after charges against him were dropped due to the unavailability of key witnesses. Mokom faced twenty counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in 2013 and 2014 in the Central African Republic. The ICC's prosecutor, Karim Khan, stated that the necessary evidence to convict Mokom was lacking. Mokom, who was arrested in Chad in March 2022, may remain in the Netherlands temporarily until another state agrees to host him. In September, a Bangui court convicted him in absentia of endangering state security and sentenced him to life imprisonment with forced labor.

The article discusses the legal implications and humanitarian concerns surrounding the recent outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas. Françoise Bouchet-Saulnier, Legal Director of Médecins sans Frontières, emphasizes the importance of adhering to humanitarian law, particularly in the context of sieges and the treatment of civilians. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's order for a complete siege of the Gaza Strip and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's declaration of war are examined through the lens of international law and the rights of states to defend themselves.

Since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas on October 7-8, both sides have employed strong rhetoric. Françoise Bouchet-Saulnier, a strategic advisor in international humanitarian law for Médecins Sans Frontières, emphasizes the importance of precise language in humanitarian law. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has ordered a complete siege of Gaza, which Bouchet-Saulnier argues violates humanitarian law by preventing essential supplies from reaching civilians. The conflict, rooted in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian issue, has escalated with recent attacks by Hamas and Israel's subsequent military response. Bouchet-Saulnier calls for mechanisms to ensure humanitarian aid can reach affected populations, similar to those used in Syria.

The United Nations' investigative mission, Unitad, has been extended until September 2024 to collect and hand over evidence of crimes committed by the Islamic State in Iraq. Baghdad, supported by Russia and China, demands access to these proofs, emphasizing respect for Iraq's sovereignty. The evidence includes documentation of genocide against the Yazidis and other atrocities. The mission has also investigated the use of chemical weapons and the administrative structure of the Islamic State.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is examining the legality of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, following a UN General Assembly resolution. The court's opinion, expected in 2024, will address the legal consequences of Israel's actions since 1967. Fifty-four countries and three international organizations have submitted briefs, with most recognizing the court's authority. France's submission reaffirms the illegal nature of the colonization, while the UK contests the referral, citing the complexity of the issue and Israel's non-consent.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is examining the legality of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, following a UN General Assembly resolution. The court's decision, expected in 2024, will address the legal consequences of Israel's actions since 1967. Fifty-four countries and three international organizations have submitted written statements, with the majority recognizing the court's jurisdiction. France, despite abstaining from the initial vote, reaffirmed the illegality of the colonization. The UK, however, contests the court's ability to handle the issue, citing the complexity and lack of Israeli consent.

On September 20, 32 countries supported Ukraine at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, arguing against Russia's justification for its invasion under the guise of preventing genocide. The session, which began on September 18, focused on the court's jurisdiction rather than the case's merits. Ukraine's representatives accused Russia of abusing the Genocide Convention to legitimize its actions, while Russia claimed it acted in self-defense. The proceedings highlighted ongoing tensions and the legal battle over the legitimacy of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

Laurence Boisson de Chazournes, a professor of international law at the University of Geneva, emphasizes the need for a global approach to water management to prevent conflicts and ensure efficient resource distribution. She highlights the importance of international cooperation on issues like dams, icebergs, and clouds, and calls for the internationalization of water resources. The upcoming UN Climate Ambition Summit in New York is seen as an opportunity to integrate water issues into broader climate change discussions.

Small island states, led by Antigua and Barbuda and Tuvalu, have brought a case to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, seeking a legal opinion on whether greenhouse gas emissions, which cause ocean warming, acidification, and sea-level rise, constitute pollution. They are advocating for legally binding obligations for states to reduce carbon emissions, beyond the non-binding commitments of the Paris Agreement. Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda expressed frustration with endless negotiations and empty promises, highlighting the existential threat of climate change to small island nations.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has begun confirmation of charges hearings against Maxime Mokom, the former coordinator of the Anti-Balaka militia, accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes in the Central African Republic during 2013 and 2014. The prosecutor aims to convince the judges to confirm the charges and proceed to trial. The hearings detail the context of the crimes, including attacks on civilians, murders, rapes, and destruction of property. Mokom, who faces 20 charges, argues that the court is criminalizing resistance in the Central African Republic.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has begun hearings to confirm charges against Maxime Mokom, former military operations chief of the anti-Balaka militia, for crimes against humanity and war crimes in the Central African Republic during 2013 and 2014. The prosecutor aims to secure an indictment on twenty counts, including murder, rape, looting, and persecution. Mokom, who has been in custody since March 2022, is also accused of organizing attacks from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and financing the anti-Balaka militia. The hearings will conclude on August 24, with judges having two months to confirm the charges.

The article details the systematic attacks by the Janjawids during the Darfur war, highlighting their brutal tactics against civilians, particularly targeting non-Arab tribes. It underscores the Sudanese government's role in orchestrating these attacks, as evidenced by strategic plans from the National Security Council. Testimonies from survivors and experts reveal the lack of a clear command structure among the Janjawids and the impunity for their crimes.

Félicien Kabuga, the Rwandan businessman accused of financing the 1994 Tutsi genocide, is to benefit from an 'indefinite suspension' of his trial as ordered by a UN mechanism's appeals chamber. Despite being declared 'unfit' to stand trial due to severe dementia, the case remains open to contribute to peace in Rwanda. The conditions and timing of Kabuga's release from the Scheveningen prison near The Hague, where he has been detained for over three years, are yet to be determined. Discussions are ongoing to decide whether he will be handed over to French, Belgian, or British authorities, or returned to Asnières-sur-Seine, where he was arrested in May 2020 after twenty-six years on the run.

The UN Appeals Chamber has indefinitely suspended the trial of Félicien Kabuga, accused of financing the Rwandan genocide, due to his severe dementia. While not fully free, Kabuga remains under tribunal authority, with judges likely to decide on conditional release. Arrested in France in 2020, Kabuga's future may involve relocation to France, the UK, or Belgium, where some of his children reside. The decision follows a special procedure aimed at maintaining peace in Rwanda, which the Appeals Chamber deemed legally erroneous.

The article discusses the arming of the Janjawids by the Sudanese government during the Darfur conflict, as revealed in the trial of Ali Kushayb. Witnesses under protection programs testified about the government's provision of weapons and vehicles to the militias. Key figures such as Mohammed Hussein and Ahmed Haroun were implicated. The article highlights the long-term consequences of these actions, including ongoing violence and instability in Sudan. Expert Alex de Waal explains that the government's inability to pay militias led to a cycle of looting and violence, preventing a return to pre-war normalcy.

Since April 2023, Sudan has experienced renewed violence between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Hemedti and the regular army under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The RSF succeeded the Janjawid militias, which terrorized Darfur during the 2003-2004 war under Omar el-Béchir's regime. Ali Kushayb, a former Janjawid leader, is currently on trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity and war crimes. Witnesses have testified about the Sudanese government's role in arming the Janjawids, with weapons and funds provided to Arab tribes willing to fight alongside the government. The article highlights the ongoing cycle of violence and the challenges faced by the Sudanese government in dealing with armed militias.

The article examines the Darfur War through the trial of Ali Kushayb, focusing on the role of the Janjawids, an Arab militia group. It highlights the Sudanese government's use of these militias to suppress rebellions, detailing the transformation of the Janjawids into the lucrative Rapid Support Forces (FSR). Key figures like Moussa Hilal and expert testimonies from Alex de Waal and Edward Jeremy provide insights into the historical and ongoing impact of these militias. The narrative underscores the criminal actions orchestrated by the Sudanese government and the enduring conflict between the FSR and the regular army.

Since April 2023, Sudan has experienced renewed violence between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Hemedti and the regular army under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The RSF, successors to the Janjaweed militias that terrorized Darfur during the 2003-2004 war, are now in conflict with the regular army. Ali Kushayb, a former Janjaweed leader, is currently on trial at the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Janjaweed, described as Arab tribesmen who committed atrocities, were initially mobilized by the Sudanese government to suppress a rebellion. Over time, these militias evolved into the RSF, now a lucrative military enterprise and adversary to the regular army.

Victims of Joseph Kony in the Central African Republic are urging the International Criminal Court to extend charges against the LRA leader to include crimes committed in their country. Kony, already wanted for crimes against humanity and war crimes in Uganda, has evaded capture since 2005. The victims' lawyer, Isabelle Kessel, representing 1,400 Central Africans, seeks to include these additional crimes in the ICC's mandate. Despite procedural advancements, the likelihood of Kony's arrest and subsequent reparations for the victims remains slim.

A new center, the International Center for the Prosecution of Crimes of Aggression (CIPA), has opened in The Hague to investigate Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The center, under Eurojust's authority, involves prosecutors from Ukraine and five EU countries, with the US also participating. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin hailed the center's opening as a historic moment, emphasizing the need for accountability for the crime of aggression. Despite the establishment of CIPA, the question of which court will try the perpetrators, including Russian leaders Vladimir Putin and Sergei Shoigu, remains unresolved. The article highlights the ongoing international debate over the creation of a special tribunal for Russian aggression.

An office dedicated to investigating Russia's aggression against Ukraine opened in The Hague, Netherlands, on July 3, 2023. The International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (CIPA) operates under Eurojust with participation from Ukraine, five EU countries, and the United States through a specific agreement. The office aims to facilitate evidence sharing among prosecutors without the need for traditional letters rogatory. Ukraine's Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin hailed the opening as a 'historic moment' and reiterated the call for a special international tribunal to address Russian aggression.

Eight Gaza MPs affiliated with Hamas have petitioned the International Criminal Court (ICC) to freeze and confiscate Israeli state assets to compensate for the $25 billion in damages caused by the blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007. The request is based on a 2020 UNCTAD report estimating the economic impact of the blockade and military operations. The MPs argue that the funds should come from Israeli sources rather than ICC member contributions. Lawyers Gilles Devers, Khaled Al-Shouli, and Abdelmajid Mrari are leading the legal effort, submitting claims for crimes against humanity and war crimes to the ICC.

The Syrian regime faces a torture complaint filed by the Netherlands and Canada at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of systematic torture, arbitrary detention, and other human rights abuses. The complaint, supported by UN reports, seeks immediate measures to stop the torture, compensate victims, and allow independent observers into Syria. The case, initiated in 2020, underscores the diplomatic and legal efforts to hold the Syrian government accountable amid ongoing normalization efforts in the Arab world.

Ukraine and Russia presented their arguments regarding the annexation of Crimea before the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Ukraine accused Russia of violating international conventions and conducting a cultural eradication campaign against Crimean Tatars, while also supporting terrorism in Donetsk and Luhansk. The proceedings are part of Ukraine's broader judicial campaign against Russia, which includes efforts in various international forums. Russia, represented by Maria Zakharova, emphasized the need to lift sanctions and halt international legal actions against it for future peace.

Félicien Kabuga, accused of genocide and crimes against humanity for his role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide, has been deemed unfit to stand trial due to dementia. Despite his condition, he will not be released but will undergo a special procedure resembling a trial without a verdict. The decision aims to maintain peace in Rwanda and uphold justice for the victims. Kabuga, arrested in 2020 after evading justice for 22 years, will remain under medical supervision. This case marks the nearing end of international trials for the 1994 genocide, with other fugitives like Fulgence Kayishema expected to be tried in Rwanda.

Félicien Kabuga, accused of financing the 1994 Rwandan genocide, has been declared unfit to stand trial by the UN tribunal in The Hague due to vascular dementia. Despite this, the case remains open, and Kabuga will remain under medical supervision. A special procedure will continue to present evidence of his alleged intent to commit genocide, although no verdict of guilt can be issued. This decision aims to conclude the legal proceedings without a formal conviction.

Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, an alleged former leader of the Janjaweed militias, is on trial at the International Criminal Court in The Hague for 31 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur between 2003 and 2004. As of June 5, 2023, the victims' lawyers have begun presenting their case, representing nearly 600 anonymous victims. The trial has seen testimonies from 56 witnesses, with more victims and witnesses set to testify, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict and the challenges faced by those still displaced.

The final verdict from the UN tribunal confirms the responsibility of the Serbian state and its leaders, including Slobodan Milosevic, in the war crimes committed during the Bosnian War. Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic, former Serbian officials, had their sentences increased to fifteen years for crimes against humanity. This marks the first time Serbian state officials have been held accountable for their roles in the wars in Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, highlighting the involvement of the Serbian regime in ethnic cleansing policies.

Fulgence Kayishema, a former Rwandan policeman on the run for 22 years, was arrested in South Africa near Cape Town. He was living under a false identity and was wanted by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda for genocide and crimes against humanity related to the 1994 genocide. Prosecutor Serge Brammertz dedicated the arrest to the victims and survivors of the genocide and acknowledged South Africa's cooperation, which improved significantly after President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the formation of a special investigative team in 2022.

In the trial of Abdoulaziz Al Hassan, former commissioner of the Islamic police of Timbuktu, the defense and victim's lawyers presented their arguments following the prosecutor's indictment. Al Hassan faces charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes during the 2012 occupation of Timbuktu. Victims' lawyers emphasized the need for truth and recognition, while the defense argued that Al Hassan was coerced into joining Ansar Dine and could not leave without risking his life. The defense also highlighted alleged torture by Malian intelligence agents post-arrest. The trial is nearing its conclusion with the defense set to finish their pleadings before the judges deliberate.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is prosecuting Abdoulaziz Al-Hassan, former head of the Islamic police in Timbuktu, for crimes against humanity and war crimes during the 2012 occupation of northern Mali by jihadist groups. The prosecution, led by Gilles Dutertre, presented extensive evidence of Al-Hassan's involvement in torture, persecution, and the oppression of women. The defense argues that Al-Hassan had no choice but to join Ansar Dine and could not leave the group. The trial is the second by the ICC related to the destruction of Timbuktu's mausoleums, with a verdict expected in several months.

The ICC prosecutor has delivered an indictment against Abdoulaziz Al Hassan, the former Islamist police chief in Timbuktu, for crimes against humanity and war crimes during the 2012 occupation. The prosecutor presented extensive evidence, including police reports signed by Al Hassan and testimonies of torture and persecution, particularly against women. The prosecution seeks a life sentence, highlighting the widespread impact of the crimes on the Timbuktu population.

Abdoulaziz al-Hassan, the former head of the Islamist police in Timbuktu, is on trial at the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and war crimes, including torture, forced marriages, rapes, and sexual slavery. The trial, ongoing for three years, is in its final stage with oral conclusions scheduled from May 23 to 25, 2023. Al-Hassan, described as the 'thinking soul' of the Islamist police, was arrested by French forces in 2017 and transferred to The Hague. The prosecution accuses him of organizing repression in Timbuktu, while his defense argues he joined the jihadist group out of necessity, not choice. The judges are set to make a final decision.

Abdulaziz Al-Hassan, the former chief of the Islamic police in Timbuktu, is facing charges at the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed during the 2012 occupation of northern Mali by jihadist groups. The prosecution, led by Deputy Prosecutor Gilles Dutertre, presented extensive evidence of Al-Hassan's involvement in torture, public floggings, and the oppression of women. Al-Hassan's defense argues that he had no choice but to join Ansar Dine and that leaving the group was not an option. The trial is the second by the ICC related to the destruction of Timbuktu's mausoleums, with a verdict expected in several months.

The Council of Europe has adopted the creation of a 'war damage registry' for Ukraine at a summit in Iceland, marking a step towards an international reparations mechanism for victims of Russian aggression. The registry, to be established in The Hague and with an annex in Kyiv, will record Ukrainian compensation claims for damages since the Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022. Ukraine's Justice Minister Denis Malyuska emphasized that Russia should pay for the damages, and Prime Minister Denys Chmyhal suggested using frozen Russian assets for compensation, a proposal supported by Oleksandra Drik from the Ukrainian Center for Civil Liberties.

Félicien Kabuga, pursued for genocide and crimes against humanity committed in Rwanda in 1994, faces multiple health issues, including Alzheimer's disease, leading to the suspension of his trial since February. The UN judges must now decide if he is fit to stand trial. The defense argues for his release due to his health, while the prosecution suggests continuing the procedure to examine the facts and record evidence. The judges' decision on this last case of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda is highly anticipated in Kigali, with no set date for the ruling.

France's Assemblée Nationale, with Ukrainian Ambassador Vadym Omelchenko present, passed a non-binding resolution urging France and the EU to designate the Russian Wagner Group as a terrorist organization. The resolution, sponsored by MP Benjamin Haddad, aims to strengthen cooperation and tools to investigate Wagner. Foreign Affairs Minister Catherine Colonna emphasized the symbolic importance of such a designation. Legal experts like Clémence Bectarte and Jelena Aparac acknowledge the symbolic value but question the practical impact. Wagner, led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, is suspected of atrocities in various countries and has been linked to the Kremlin. The European Parliament labeled Russia a state sponsor of terrorism and called for Wagner's terrorist designation, a step only Lithuania has taken. The UK is investigating, and the US has labeled Wagner a transnational criminal organization. The hesitation to label Wagner as a terrorist group is partly due to the political implications of associating Russia with state-sponsored terrorism.

The French National Assembly, in a rare consensus, adopted a resolution urging France and the European Union to designate the Russian private military company Wagner Group as a terrorist organization. This move, led by MP Benjamin Haddad, aims to enhance judicial and financial cooperation to scrutinize Wagner's activities. While the resolution is symbolic, it could lead to significant sanctions and legal actions. The Wagner Group, linked to numerous atrocities in various countries, has close ties with the Russian government. The European Parliament and other nations are also considering similar designations, though political complexities hinder some decisions.

Volodymyr Zelensky, during a surprise visit to The Hague, called for the establishment of a new international tribunal to judge Russian leaders for the crime of aggression, rejecting any form of hybrid peace or justice. Despite initial opposition from Western capitals, Zelensky emphasized the need for a 'real tribunal' akin to Nuremberg to ensure non-repetition of such crimes. The creation of the International Coordination Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression in The Hague, supported by the European Commission, marks a partial victory for Ukraine. The article discusses the legal and political challenges in establishing such a tribunal, highlighting the limitations of the International Criminal Court and the potential role of the United Nations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during a visit to The Hague, called for the creation of a new international tribunal to judge Russian aggression, rejecting any 'hybrid peace' or 'hybrid justice.' He emphasized the need for a 'true, full-fledged tribunal,' akin to Nuremberg, to ensure non-repetition of the crime of aggression. Zelensky's proposal faced initial opposition from Western countries and challenges due to Ukraine not ratifying the ICC treaty. However, a semi-victory was achieved with the support of the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for the establishment of the International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression in The Hague, which could be operational by summer.

The trial of former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi and three other former UCK leaders opens in The Hague, accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Kosovo conflict. The indictment details the alleged crimes, including arbitrary detention, torture, and persecution of Serbs, Roma, and Albanian Kosovars. The Special Tribunal for Kosovo, established with EU and US support, faces criticism in Pristina. The trial, expected to last several years, will involve testimonies from over 300 witnesses and accounts of nearly 500 victims.

On March 30, 2023, in The Hague, the health of Rwandan businessman Félicien Kabuga, accused of contributing to the 1994 Tutsi genocide, was debated in the United Nations Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals. Three experts testified that Kabuga suffers from dementia and is unfit to stand trial. Defense lawyers requested the judges to close the case, opposing any alternative procedures that would record evidence without the accused's presence. The prosecutor challenged the experts' conclusions, noting Kabuga's pneumonia and language barriers during assessments but acknowledged his significant comprehension abilities. The judges have begun deliberations, with no clear date for a future decision.

South Africa faces a diplomatic dilemma as it prepares to host the BRICS summit in August, with an ICC arrest warrant issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin. The situation recalls the 2015 controversy involving Sudanese President Omar Al-Bachir. South Africa, a signatory to the ICC, is legally obligated to execute the warrant, but internal and international debates complicate the matter. The government seeks updated legal advice while balancing its diplomatic relations and commitment to justice. The issue has sparked significant political discourse within the country.

The trial of Félicien Kabuga, accused of genocide and crimes against humanity, is suspended due to concerns over his mental health. Two psychiatrists and a neurologist have diagnosed him with vascular dementia, questioning his fitness to stand trial. The United Nations Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals, which is conducting the trial in The Hague, is considering alternatives to proceed without a traditional verdict if necessary. Kabuga's condition, including diabetes and a recent bout of pneumonia, limits trial sessions to six hours per week, with only 24 witnesses heard so far. The defense and prosecution are debating his ability to understand the charges and participate in his defense, with the final decision pending.

Ukraine has established the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA) to address Russian aggression, marking a step towards a special court. The initiative, supported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aims to gain backing from the United Nations General Assembly. Despite opposition from France, the US, and the UK, the ICPA will operate under Eurojust's supervision, with a joint investigation team already probing crimes in Ukraine. The tribunal's legitimacy and potential to challenge the immunity of Russian leaders are key considerations.

Ukraine has established the Centre international pour la poursuite du crime d’agression (CIPA) as a preliminary step towards creating a special tribunal to prosecute Russian aggression. The initiative, supported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aims to gain backing from the United Nations General Assembly. However, countries like France, the United States, and the United Kingdom oppose such a tribunal, fearing it could set a precedent for other cases of aggression. The CIPA will operate under Eurojust until the tribunal is potentially established.

The International Court of Justice has ordered Azerbaijan to ensure the free movement of people, vehicles, and goods along the Lachin corridor, the only route connecting 120,000 Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia, which has been blocked by Azerbaijani activists since December 2022. The blockade has raised international concern, with Amnesty International warning of potential humanitarian crises. The European Union has deployed observers to the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, a move opposed by Russia. Armenia accuses Azerbaijan of violating international conventions, while Azerbaijan denies government involvement, attributing the blockade to environmental protests by its citizens.

Ukraine has bolstered its resistance to the Russian invasion by implementing 'war justice' measures. Ukrainian magistrates, including Eleonora Belei, received training in Paris to align their judicial practices with EU standards and enhance Franco-Ukrainian judicial cooperation. The training covered criminal analysis, evidence collection, and international cooperation, with contributions from French legal experts and institutions. The initiative aims to hold Russian officials accountable for war crimes, emphasizing the importance of establishing facts and tracing responsibility up the command chain.

After nearly nine years of investigation into the downing of flight MH17 over Donbass by pro-Russian separatists, the Dutch prosecution office announced the suspension of the inquiry due to insufficient evidence for new prosecutions. Investigators pointed to strong indications that Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to supply the Buk missile system to the separatists, but concrete evidence remains lacking. The investigation faced significant challenges due to Russia's lack of cooperation and the risks faced by potential witnesses. The report highlights close contacts between Donbass separatist leaders and Kremlin advisors, but acknowledges that Putin's immunity as a head of state prevents further legal action.

Damien Scalia, a law professor at the Université libre de Bruxelles, authored 'Génocidaire(s), Au cœur de la justice internationale pénale,' a book that explores the perspectives of war criminals on international criminal justice. Scalia interviewed sixty convicts from the international tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, focusing on the impact of justice on these individuals rather than their crimes or responsibilities. He found that the convicts often see themselves as unable to feel guilty due to the rigid, political, and partial nature of the judicial narrative, which they perceive as a continuation of war within the courtroom.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan announced the closure of the investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Central African Republic, which began in 2007 and was relaunched in 2014 at the request of former President Catherine Samba Panza. While the investigation has concluded, ongoing trials still involve former members of the anti-Balaka and Seleka militias, including Noureddine Adam, who remains at large. The ICC's work also led to the trial of Jean-Pierre Bemba, who was acquitted. Khan plans to strengthen collaboration with the Special Criminal Court in Bangui, which has completed its first trial and has more forthcoming.

Al Jazeera's lawyers have submitted evidence to the International Criminal Court (ICC) suggesting that the killing of American-Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh by an Israeli soldier was deliberate, constituting a war crime and a crime against humanity. Israel's Prime Minister Yaïr Lapid immediately dismissed the allegations. The Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki criticized the international community for the lack of attention and resources given to the situation in Palestine compared to other conflicts, such as in Ukraine.

Ukrainian ambassador Anton Korynevitch is in Paris to persuade French authorities to support the creation of a tribunal to judge Russian aggression. Despite initial resistance from France, the tone has recently shifted towards discussing the tribunal's challenges. Ukraine seeks a special tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression, as current international mechanisms like the International Criminal Court (ICC) are limited by state immunity and the need for UN Security Council approval, which Russia would veto. The French government, while supportive of the ICC, is now more open to discussing the tribunal idea.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan seeks to hold 'in absentia' hearings against Joseph Kony, the long-sought fugitive and leader of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), who has been indicted for crimes against humanity and war crimes in northern Uganda during 2003 and 2004. Despite a 17-year manhunt involving multiple countries, including the USA, Kony remains at large. The hearings aim to provide a semblance of justice by recording evidence collected since the 2005 arrest warrant and could potentially reignite the search for Kony, who has been elusive in recent years, reportedly moving between Sudan and the Central African Republic.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) continues to investigate the events of 2010 and 2011 in Côte d'Ivoire, focusing on potential crimes committed by the pro-Alassane Ouattara camp led by Guillaume Soro. Despite the initial focus on crimes by the pro-Gbagbo camp, the ICC has confirmed the existence of a second investigation into crimes by Ouattara's supporters. However, no arrest warrants have been issued, raising questions and speculations in Côte d'Ivoire. The ICC's prosecutor, Karim Khan, has confirmed that the investigation is in an advanced stage, but progress has been slow due to limited resources and lack of cooperation from Ivorian authorities. The ICC is seeking over 2 million euros from member states to continue its investigations in Côte d'Ivoire.

Maxime Mokom, a Central African militia leader arrested for crimes against humanity and war crimes, may soon be granted provisional release by the International Criminal Court. The case has stalled due to legal representation issues, with Mokom currently lacking a permanent lawyer. Judges have expressed impatience over delays, while victims' representatives oppose his release, citing security concerns in the Central African Republic.

The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, presented his latest report on the investigation in Libya to the UN Security Council, expressing regret over the partial cooperation from Libyan authorities. He called for visas and access to documents for his investigators, who have been working in the region for months. The investigation focuses on crimes in Libyan detention centers and in Tarhouna, where mass graves were found after Khalifa Haftar's forces left in 2020. Khan's meeting with Haftar sparked protests from NGOs and jurists.

Forensic expert Eric Baccard recounts his experiences as a 'doctor of the living and the dead' in his memoirs, detailing over twenty years of work in mass graves, exhumations, and crime sites globally. A pioneer in forensic medicine for international war crime trials, Baccard's work spans conflicts in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Ivory Coast, Mali, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Central African Republic. His first mission for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in 1999 involved investigating ethnic cleansing by Bosnian Serb troops. Baccard's memoir, 'Nécropoles,' highlights the emotional toll and the meticulous process of forensic investigations, including his testimony in the trial of Slobodan Milosevic and his role in establishing the first scientific department at the International Criminal Court.

Philippe Sands, a Franco-British lawyer and professor, plays a pivotal role in the discourse on war crimes in Ukraine, particularly focusing on the terms 'aggression' and 'genocide.' His personal connection to Lviv, where key concepts of international law were developed, and his call for a special court to try Russia's crime of aggression, underscore his influence. The article highlights the historical and legal context of these terms and the ongoing efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine.

In the trial of Félicien Kabuga, accused of genocide and crimes against humanity, the first prosecution witness continued his testimony before the UN Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals. Kabuga, a Rwandan businessman and former president of Radio-Télévision des Milles Collines (RTLM), is alleged to have played a significant role in the extremist broadcasts of the station. The defense, led by Emmanuel Altit, argued that Kabuga's investment in RTLM was for commercial purposes rather than political. The witness, under the pseudonym KAB 5, testified that RTLM's broadcasts became increasingly virulent following the assassination of Burundian President Melchior Ndadaye in 1993, urging vigilance among Rwandan Hutus. Kabuga did not attend the cross-examination, either in person or via video conference.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the International Criminal Court (ICC) swiftly opened an investigation into crimes committed on Ukrainian territory. Despite neither Russia nor Ukraine being ICC members, Ukraine had granted the court jurisdiction after the 2014 annexation of Crimea. The ICC, in its 20 years, has only convicted a few militia members, with high-profile figures like Vladimir Putin remaining unindicted. The article discusses the challenges faced by the ICC in prosecuting top officials and the need for solid evidence linking leaders to war crimes. The ICC's ability to indict Putin hinges on establishing direct responsibility for atrocities in Ukraine, a process that will take time.

On the second day of his trial, Félicien Kabuga once again refused to appear before the judges of the UN Mechanism responsible for the remaining cases of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Charged with genocide and crimes against humanity committed in Rwanda in 1994, Kabuga has lost confidence in his lawyer, whose dismissal has been refused by the judges for several months. Despite Kabuga's absence, his lawyer, Emmanuel Altit, defended him, arguing that Kabuga was not the editor-in-chief of Radio-Télévision des Mille Collines but a daring entrepreneur involved in the creation of the country's first commercial radio. Altit contended that Kabuga's efforts to gather funds for weapons were in the context of the war between the Rwandan Patriotic Front and the then government. The trial has been adjourned until October 5, when the prosecutor's first protected witness will testify under a pseudonym.

Since the establishment of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda in Arusha, Tanzania, in 1996, the city has undergone significant economic and infrastructural development. The tribunal, which prosecuted individuals responsible for the Rwandan genocide, had a substantial impact on the local economy, injecting over $2.5 million a month and employing around 200 Tanzanian nationals. With the tribunal's conclusion, there are mixed feelings among locals, with some concerned about potential economic downturns and others pleased with the reduction in inflated prices. Arusha has also attracted other international institutions and has been compared to Africa's Geneva, although there are concerns about security due to recent attacks attributed to al-Shabaab.