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ICJ Under New Leadership: What Judge Iwasawa’s Presidency Means for Israel’s Legal Battle.

 

Mr. Yuji Iwasawa. 

On March 3, 2025, Judge Yuji Iwasawa of Japan was elected as the President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), succeeding Nawaf Salam, who resigned to become Lebanon's prime minister.

Background on Judge Yuji Iwasawa:

  • Professional Trajectory: Prior to his ICJ appointment in 2018, Judge Iwasawa was a distinguished professor of international law at the University of Tokyo and chaired the United Nations Human Rights Committee.

ICJ's Involvement in Cases Concerning Israel:

  • Pending Legal Proceedings: The ICJ is currently addressing cases related to Israel's actions in the Palestinian territories. Notably, South Africa has initiated proceedings accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip, invoking the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

Potential Implications of Judge Iwasawa's Presidency on the Case Against Israel:

  • Judicial Impartiality: As President, Judge Iwasawa is expected to uphold the ICJ's commitment to impartiality, ensuring that all cases, including those involving Israel, are adjudicated based on legal merits without bias.

  • Procedural Oversight: The President plays a pivotal role in managing court proceedings. Judge Iwasawa's extensive experience in international law is anticipated to contribute to the efficient handling of complex cases, such as the allegations against Israel.

  • Influence on Judicial Deliberations: While the President can guide discussions, the ICJ's decisions are collective. Judge Iwasawa's legal philosophy and leadership may subtly influence deliberations, but outcomes will result from the consensus of all judges.

  • International Perception: His election may affect global perceptions of the ICJ's stance on Middle East issues. However, the court's legitimacy hinges on its adherence to legal principles rather than geopolitical considerations.

Conclusion:

Judge Iwasawa's presidency signifies a continuation of the ICJ's dedication to impartial justice. While his leadership may impact procedural aspects, the substantive outcomes of cases involving Israel will depend on legal analyses and the collective judgment of the court.


When it is said that Judge Yuji Iwasawa’s election may affect global perceptions of the ICJ’s stance on Middle East issues, it  means that different international actors—governments, legal experts, activists, and media—might interpret his leadership in different ways based on his background, nationality, and judicial approach. Here’s what this could mean in practical terms:

1. Perceptions of Fairness and Neutrality

  • Some countries and observers may view Iwasawa as a neutral and independent legal expert, given his strong background in international law and human rights. This could reinforce the credibility of the ICJ’s decisions in the Israel-Palestine case.
  • Others, especially stakeholders in the Middle East, may scrutinize his judicial record and question whether he will ensure accountability for alleged human rights violations.

2. Japan’s Foreign Policy and Its Potential Influence

  • Japan is traditionally a U.S. ally and has maintained diplomatic relations with Israel, while also supporting a two-state solution and Palestinian aid efforts.
  • Some may speculate that Iwasawa’s leadership could subtly align with Japan’s balanced foreign policy, influencing how the ICJ approaches cases concerning Israel.
  • However, as an independent judge, Iwasawa is expected to rule strictly based on legal principles, not political influences.

3. The ICJ’s Credibility on Middle East Issues

  • If the ICJ under Iwasawa’s presidency moves quickly and decisively on the genocide case against Israel, some may see this as proof that the court is willing to challenge powerful nations.
  • Conversely, if the court delays rulings or issues cautious decisions, critics might argue that the ICJ is avoiding confrontation, reinforcing concerns that international justice is biased in favor of Western-aligned nations.

4. Judicial Approach and Procedural Impact

  • While the ICJ’s rulings are collective, the President plays a role in managing proceedings, influencing timing, case prioritization, and courtroom dynamics.
  • If Iwasawa’s presidency ensures a swift and fair process, it could strengthen trust in the ICJ’s ability to handle Middle East cases.
  • However, any procedural delays or perceived hesitancy in ruling against Israel might raise suspicions about the court’s impartiality.

Conclusion

In short, Judge Iwasawa’s election does not automatically change ICJ rulings, but it does shape how people interpret the court’s neutrality and effectiveness in handling politically sensitive cases like the one against Israel. Global actors will closely watch whether his leadership leads to fair, timely, and legally sound decisions—or perceived delays and leniency.


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