Aharon Barak, former president of Israel’s Supreme Court, has resigned from his role as an ad hoc judge on a case brought forward by South Africa, accusing Israel of genocide during its war in Gaza.
Barak, appointed by Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) committee examining the case, cited vague “personal and family reasons” in his resignation letter to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dated June 4.
According to the ICJ’s regulations, states without a permanent judge on the court are allowed to appoint ad hoc judges for specific cases.
It remains unclear who Israel will appoint to replace Barak.
President Isaac Herzog praised Barak’s service at the ICJ, stating Israel’s commitment to “continue to stand steadfast against the evil, hypocrisy and libels”.
Barak, 87, had a long and distinguished legal career. He served on the Supreme Court for 28 years, including 11 years as president. Before his judicial career, he held positions as Attorney General and was a prominent academic.
However, Barak’s legacy is not without controversy.
A 1999 decision he authored created a legal justification for certain physical interrogation methods in extreme and urgent circumstances.
Additionally, the Supreme Court under his presidency declined to rule on the legality of Israeli settlements and continued the practice of demolishing Palestinian homes.
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