Tonga was among 12 countries that voted against a United Nations resolution seeking an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel’s responsibilities to facilitate aid to Palestinians.
The resolution demands that Israel cease actions impeding the delivery of basic services and humanitarian aid to Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, and to respect the rights of international organizations operating in the region.
The resolution, which passed with 137 votes in favour, calls on the ICJ to examine Israel’s legal obligations in ensuring humanitarian access. It was opposed by Pacific nations including Fiji Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea with 22 countries abstaining. Israel and the United States were also against the proposal.

Norway’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andreas Kravik, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “We’re extremely satisfied with the result we have seen,” he said, highlights the need for clarity from the ICJ.
“Israel is claiming that they have a right to do what they’re doing. We are now seeking guidance from the highest court of the world, the ICJ, to punctuate this argument,” Kravik added.
The resolution highlights ongoing global divisions over the Israel-Palestine conflict.