Iran (IMNA) - On Saturday, Gharibabadi took to X to denounce Sebutinde’s position as a “shocking violation of judicial ethics,” emphasizing that her bias undermines the ICJ’s credibility and contravenes the essential principle of judicial impartiality.
Sebutinde, a Ugandan national, sparked controversy when she declared on August 10 at a church event that “The Lord is counting on me to stand on the side of Israel,” adding that “The whole world was against Israel, including my country,” and suggesting that signs foretold in biblical “end times” are manifesting in the Middle East.
Her comments have drawn criticism due to her prior dissenting opinions in major ICJ rulings involving Israel. Last year, she was the sole opposing judge on a 17-member panel ruling concerning the admissibility of Israel’s alleged genocide in Gaza. In July 2024, she also dissented alone when a 15-member panel declared Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territories unlawful. Furthermore, Sebutinde has faced accusations of plagiarism in parts of her dissenting opinion related to these cases.
Iran’s response underlines concerns about the impartiality and credibility of the ICJ in light of Sebutinde’s statements and judicial conduct. The Iranian deputy foreign minister’s remarks highlight the seriousness of the situation as the international community watches how justice is administered in sensitive geopolitical matters.
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