New York, April 17 (SANA) – United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Friday of growing violations of international law and declining trust in global institutions, stressing that respect for rulings of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is not optional but binding under the UN Charter.
According to UN News, Guterres said during remarks in The Hague marking the 80th anniversary of the court’s establishment that violations of international law are unfolding before the world’s eyes.
He said military operations are breaching the fundamental rules governing armed conflict, while humanitarian obligations are being ignored, including rules designed to protect the United Nations itself.
Guterres added that institutions created to uphold justice are facing increasing doubt and pressure, noting that the erosion of the rule of law is taking place at the heart of the international system, including by states bearing special responsibilities for maintaining international peace and security.
The UN chief stressed that the world is at a decisive moment requiring a choice between a future governed by the rule of law or one shaped by the logic of force.
He called for renewed commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for ICJ judgments, implementation of its advisory opinions, and adherence to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter.
The International Court of Justice, founded in 1945 and based in The Hague, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations and settles legal disputes between states.
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