The International Court of Justice has ruled that wealthy nations must comply with their climate commitments or risk being held financially liable for damages caused by climate change. The court determined that treaties compel rich countries to curb fossil fuels and pollution, emphasizing that states must cooperate to achieve concrete emission reduction targets. Judge Yuji Iwasawa stated that greenhouse gas emissions are unequivocally caused by human activities not limited to any territory, holding rich nations accountable for corporate emissions under their jurisdiction. Failure to act could result in reparations to injured states, including restitution, compensation, and satisfaction, provided the general conditions of state responsibility are met. The ruling has been praised by small island states and environmental advocates, who view it as a significant step toward global climate justice. In contrast, some political figures, including the White House spokesperson, have expressed skepticism, with the Trump administration emphasizing American priorities over international obligations. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the ruling’s alignment with the Paris climate agreement goals, urging a global response to climate challenges. The decision underscores the growing legal and financial accountability for climate change, with potential implications for international relations and economic policies.