The Hague, Netherlands. South Africa has filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of engaging in “genocidal acts” in the Gaza Strip. The United Nations court has confirmed the application, focusing on alleged violations of Israel’s obligations under the Genocide Convention.
Israel has vehemently rejected the accusation, denouncing it as “baseless.” The Israeli foreign ministry stated, “Israel rejects with disgust the blood libel spread by South Africa.”
The ICJ, headquartered in The Hague, serves as the UN’s principal judicial organ, settling disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on international legal matters.
South Africa’s presidency, in a statement following the ICJ application, expressed deep concern for civilians affected by Israeli attacks on Gaza. The statement highlighted the indiscriminate use of force and forcible removal of inhabitants, citing reports of international crimes, including crimes against humanity and war crimes.
The 84-page document filed by South Africa claims that the “acts and omissions by Israel” are “genocidal in character” with the intention to destroy a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial, and ethnic group.
The application requests the ICJ to hold a hearing next week and seeks “provisional measures,” including a halt to all Israeli military activities in Gaza.
In response, Lior Haiat, a spokesman for Israel’s foreign affairs ministry, dismissed South Africa’s claim as “despicable and contemptuous exploitation of the Court.” He accused South Africa of cooperating with a terrorist organization, referring to Hamas, and emphasized Israel’s commitment to international law in its military actions.
Tensions between South Africa and Israel escalated in early November when South Africa recalled all its diplomats from Israel, prompting Israel to recall its ambassador from Pretoria. The South African national assembly voted to suspend diplomatic relations with Israel, awaiting an official response from the government.
South Africa had previously filed a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC), alleging war crimes by Israel in Gaza. However, Israel does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, triggered by a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, has resulted in a significant loss of life, with both sides experiencing casualties, including civilians. The situation remains complex, with international legal avenues becoming a focal point in the pursuit of justice and accountability.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
