South Africa urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Tuesday to issue a non-binding legal opinion stating that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal. This request aims to support efforts toward reaching a settlement in the long-standing conflict.

Representatives of South Africa presented their arguments during the second day of hearings at the ICJ in The Hague. The proceedings come in response to a request from the U.N. General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the occupation in 2022. Over 50 states will present their arguments until Feb. 26.

On Monday, Palestinian representatives also asked the ICJ to declare Israel’s occupation of their territory illegal. They emphasized that the court’s advisory opinion could contribute to achieving a two-state solution and lasting peace.

Notably, Israel did not attend the hearings but submitted a written statement, expressing concerns that an advisory opinion could hinder efforts to negotiate a settlement with the Palestinians.

South Africa’s ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, emphasized the importance of a clear legal characterization of Israel’s regime over the Palestinian people to facilitate progress toward a just settlement.

The recent surge of violence in Gaza, triggered by attacks in Israel by Hamas, has further complicated efforts to address the underlying issues in the Middle East conflict.

The ICJ’s 15-judge panel has been tasked with reviewing various aspects of Israel’s actions, including occupation, settlement, and annexation, as well as discriminatory legislation and measures related to Jerusalem’s status. The judges are expected to take approximately six months to issue their opinion on the matter.