Participation of Senegal in the advisory proceedings before the International Court of Justice concerning Israel's obligations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory

Sygna Partners had the honour of assisting the Republic of Senegal in the advisory proceedings before the International Court of Justice concerning Israel's obligations in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations, other international organisations and third States in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and in relation thereto.

Professor Jean-Marc Thouvenin, partner in the International Litigation and Arbitration department, participated in the written proceedings and pleaded at the oral hearings held from 28 April to 2 May 2025 alongside Professor Makane Moïse Mbengue and Her Excellency Ambassador Dieynaba Touré Bathily, head of the Senegalese delegation. They were assisted by Eglantine Canale Jamet and Dayane Darwich, associates at the firm.

Senegal reaffirmed Israel's clear legal obligations under international law, in particular towards the UN and UNRWA, which Israel continues to violate.

In her statement, Ambassador Touré Bathily recalled in particular that

‘Senegal has long supported the Palestinian cause, not only because it is just, but also because it is based on the most established international law. Our country is driven by the desire for effective and concrete protection for the Palestinian people, who have been unjustly subjected to prolonged and illegal occupation.’

Senegal's written statement is available at: https://www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/196/196-20250303-wri-05-00-en.pdf

Senegal's pleadings can be read (https://lnkd.in/emrKM7_F) or listened to (https://lnkd.in/eDs5PjPZ) on the Court's website.