South Africa has intensified its legal campaign against Israel, urging the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to take a decisive stance against what it describes as atrocities committed by Israel in the besieged Gaza Strip.
The call comes amid ongoing hearings at The Hague concerning the legality of Israel's prolonged occupation of Palestinian territories.
Speaking before the ICJ, Zane Dangor, Director-General of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, described Gaza as a “killing field,” citing United Nations reports that point to a man-made famine and the collapse of humanitarian aid systems.
According to "Africa Report" , Dangor accused Israel of deliberately blocking the entry of essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine into Gaza, referencing a statement by Israel’s Defense Minister explicitly denying the entry of humanitarian aid.
South Africa's legal counsel, Nokukhanya Jele, who represents President Cyril Ramaphosa, argued that Israel had violated its obligations as an occupying power. Jele stated that Israel’s actions amount to de facto annexation and that strikes on health, education, and administrative institutions were intended to prevent the establishment of a viable Palestinian state.
This week’s hearings stem from a request by the United Nations General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel’s ongoing occupation. South Africa’s statements build upon a previous case it filed in December 2023, accusing Israel of committing acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
South Africa demanded the ICJ not to ignore what it called Israel’s violations of international law. “Turning a blind eye to these crimes is equivalent to suppressing evidence and rewarding impunity,” the South African delegation warned.
It's worth mentioning that more than 40 countries are participating in the proceedings, which are expected to conclude on Friday.
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