Israel has responded to South Africa’s claim that it is committing “genocidal” acts in Gaza by stating that it will fight the case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Israeli spokesman, Eylon Levy, directed a strong message to South African leaders, warning them that history will judge them without mercy. South Africa, a staunch supporter of the Palestinians, filed the case at the ICJ, causing outrage in Israel.
The conflict between Israel and Gaza started on 7 October, with Israel declaring war on Hamas after the group led a massive attack on Israeli communities, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Since then, more than 22,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, have been killed in Israeli strikes, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The ministry is controlled by the Islamist group Hamas.
South Africa’s presidency, following its application to the ICJ, stated that the country has an obligation to prevent genocide from occurring. The 84-page document filed by South Africa claims that Israel’s “acts and omissions” are genocidal in nature and are aimed at the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial, and ethnic group.
The ICJ, based in the Hague, Netherlands, is the highest court of the United Nations for settling disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on international legal issues. It does not have prosecutorial power, but its opinions carry weight with the UN and other international legal bodies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently rejected South Africa’s allegations when the lawsuit was filed, asserting that it is Hamas, not Israel, that perpetuates genocide. Netanyahu stated that Hamas would murder all Israelis if given the opportunity, emphasizing that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are acting as morally as possible in their operations.
This is not the first time Israel has faced an ICJ investigation. Previously, initiated by the Palestinians, an ongoing investigation is looking into Israel’s “prolonged occupation, settlement, and annexation of Palestinian territory.” In 2004, the ICJ ruled against Israel’s barrier built in and around the occupied West Bank, deeming it a violation of international law. Israel argued that the barrier was constructed to prevent suicide bombings, while Palestinians viewed it as a means to seize land.
South Africa’s government lawyers are preparing for the ICJ case, which is scheduled to be heard in January. While Israel plans to fight the lawsuit, Eylon Levy referred to South Africa’s claims as an “absurd blood libel.”
The outcome of this case and the ongoing investigation into Israel’s actions in Palestinian territories will have significant implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It will also impact diplomatic relations between Israel and South Africa, as well as Israel’s international standing and reputation.
In conclusion, Israel is taking a firm stance to defend against South Africa’s accusation of “genocidal” acts in Gaza by bringing the case to the ICJ. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a high number of casualties on both sides, predominantly civilians. The ICJ’s verdict and the ongoing investigation into Israel’s actions in Palestinian territories will have far-reaching consequences for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israel’s relations with the international community.
