South Africa has formally accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, initiating legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to demand a cessation of Israeli attacks.
The submission contends that Israel’s actions are genocidal and specifically aimed at the destruction of Palestinians in Gaza within the broader Palestinian national, racial, and ethnic context. Both countries are signatories to the Genocide Convention, under which South Africa has brought this unprecedented case.
A hearing for an interim order compelling Israel to immediately halt military operations in Gaza is anticipated in the coming days or weeks. However, the case’s full resolution may take years.
Israel has vehemently rejected the filing, denouncing it as a “blood libel.” The Israeli government argues that the case lacks legal merit and accuses South Africa of exploiting the court for political ends.
Israel contends that it takes measures to minimize harm to civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid while also accusing South Africa of collaborating with Hamas. This militant group triggered the conflict with a cross-border attack in southern Israel.
Expressing deep concern for civilians affected by Israeli attacks, South Africa’s foreign ministry cites indiscriminate use of force and forcible removal of inhabitants. The church notes ongoing reports of international crimes, including crimes against humanity, war crimes, and acts meeting the threshold of genocide under the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide.
President Cyril Ramaphosa and others draw parallels between Israel’s policies in Gaza and the West Bank and South Africa’s past apartheid regime. Ramaphosa accuses Israel of war crimes and actions tantamount to genocide.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry supports South Africa’s accusations and urges the court to take immediate action to protect Palestinians.
While the International Court of Justice’s orders are legally binding, compliance is not guaranteed. South Africa’s case presents a significant opportunity for the court to examine Israel’s actions in Gaza under the Genocide Convention.
Balkees Jarrah of Human Rights Watch sees it as an essential step toward obtaining clear answers on whether Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people.
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