World: The United Nations’ top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), declared that Israel’s settlement policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem violates international law. This decision is part of a non-binding advisory opinion on the legality of Israel’s 57-year occupation of lands sought for a Palestinian state. While this ruling might influence international opinion, it is unlikely to change Israeli policies. The United Nations’ top court also stated that Israel’s use of natural resources in the West Bank and East Jerusalem goes against international law. This decision came amid Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza, which started 10 months ago after Hamas attacked southern Israel. Separately, the court is examining a claim by South Africa that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide, a charge that Israel denies. Israel took control of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip during the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want these areas for their own independent state.