- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) elected Judge Yuji Iwasawa as its new president.
- He replaces Nawaf Salam, who resigned to become Lebanon’s prime minister.
- Iwasawa will serve the remainder of Salam’s term until February 5, 2027.
- The ICJ, based in The Hague, resolves legal disputes between nations.
- It is currently handling high-profile cases, including genocide accusations against Israel.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has elected Judge Yuji Iwasawa as its new president. The announcement was made on Monday, following the resignation of former president Nawaf Salam. Iwasawa, a Japanese judge, will complete Salam’s term, which ends on February 5, 2027.
Salam stepped down from his position in January after being appointed as Lebanon’s prime minister. His unexpected departure created a vacancy at the top of the UN’s highest court. The election of Iwasawa ensures leadership continuity in the ICJ, which plays a crucial role in resolving international disputes.
Who Is Yuji Iwasawa?
Yuji Iwasawa has been a member of the ICJ since 2018. Before his appointment, he was a professor of international law at the University of Tokyo. He also served as chairperson of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, demonstrating his extensive expertise in international law.
Iwasawa’s legal career has been marked by his deep involvement in human rights and international dispute resolution. His leadership at the ICJ is expected to focus on upholding international law while addressing complex global legal challenges.
ICJ’s Role and Global Impact
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), also called the World Court, was founded in 1945. It operates from The Hague, Netherlands, as the main judicial organ of the United Nations. The court not only resolves legal conflicts between states but also provides advisory opinions on legal issues brought by UN bodies and specialized agencies.
Recently, the ICJ has been at the center of global discussions. One of its most widely followed cases involves genocide accusations against Israel in the ongoing Gaza war. Since the court’s rulings influence international law and diplomacy, many countries are closely watching how this case unfolds.
Back in July 2023, the ICJ ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank and East Jerusalem, was illegal. The court made it clear that Israel must withdraw from these areas without delay. This decision further strengthened the position of the United Nations and most of the international community regarding Israeli settlements.
Meanwhile, Palestinians and many world leaders argue that these settlements violate international law. On the other hand, Israel firmly rejects this claim, insisting that the land holds historical, biblical, and security significance. As a result, the ruling has fueled heated debates over Israel’s policies and escalated diplomatic tensions.
What’s Next for the ICJ?
Under Iwasawa’s leadership, the ICJ is expected to continue handling critical international cases. The court’s role in global conflict resolution remains crucial, particularly as disputes over territorial rights, war crimes, and international law violations persist. His experience in human rights and legal arbitration is likely to influence upcoming rulings and advisory opinions.
As geopolitical conflicts grow more complex, the ICJ’s decisions will continue to shape international law and global diplomacy. The election of Iwasawa signals a continuation of the court’s commitment to impartiality and justice in international affairs.