South Africa has filed a suit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). They are accusing Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. The ICJ has scheduled a hearing for January 11-12, but the proceedings might extend over an extended period.
On December 29, 2023, South Africa initiated legal proceedings against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. The application alleges that Israel has committed acts with the intent to destroy a substantial part of the Palestinian group in the Gaza Strip.
The case, brought under Article IX of the Genocide Convention, claims that Israel failed to prevent genocide, neglected to prosecute public incitement to genocide, and directly engaged in genocidal acts in Gaza. South Africa’s application seeks expedited proceedings and provisional measures. It includes a call for Israel to cease actions violating the Genocide Convention in Gaza while the case is pending.
The application details numerous allegations against Israel, including causing mass displacement, destruction of homes, and depriving Palestinians of essential resources. It also mentions Israel’s telecommunications blackouts, restrictions on fact-finding bodies, and the killing of journalists in Gaza during the conflict.
South Africa’s Stand On Humanitarian
South Africa’s legal move follows a similar case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar for alleged genocide against the Rohingya population. The ICJ, in 2022, asserted jurisdiction to hear The Gambia’s case, which remains ongoing.
The ICJ is scheduled to hear oral arguments from South Africa and Israel on January 11 and 12, respectively. The application adds to the growing international scrutiny of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The outcome may have significant implications for Israel’s international standing. The outcome could potentially impact Israel’s standing on the international stage and influence its primary supporter, the United States.
It is a great step from South Africa’s side but they are helping Gaza to get some justice. The case can go on for years as Israel is not a part of ICJ so they can cause a lot of problems during the journey.
We can hope the Innocent children and people of Palestine can get their homes and lives back and only peace prevails in the world!
