Israel has vowed to continue its operation in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip as the International Court of Justice is set to make a decision on Friday on a request for emergency measures to halt the offensive.

The ICJ announced on Thursday that it will deliver its order on South Africa's request for Israel to cease its operation in Rafah, where many evacuees are taking shelter.

An Israeli government spokesperson said on Thursday, "No power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza."

Local health authorities say the death toll from the fighting in Gaza has risen to 35,800.

South Africa filed the case with the ICJ after accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.

In January, the court gave Israel an order to take all measures to prevent acts of genocide.

Israel has reacted sharply to the previous ICJ decisions. It is likely to face further pressure from the international community depending on Friday's order.