The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has announced forthcoming hearings regarding a case brought forward by South Africa, accusing Israel of engaging in "genocidal acts" in Gaza during the conflict with Hamas. These hearings, scheduled for next week, will focus on South Africa's plea for "provisional measures," seeking emergency steps from the court to safeguard the rights of involved parties, as reported by CNN.
The ICJ, headquartered in The Hague and serving as the UN's primary judicial body, confirmed the receipt of South Africa's case filed on December 29, 2023. The case revolves around "alleged violations by Israel of its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide concerning Palestinians in the Gaza Strip."
South Africa, in an 84-page application to the ICJ, emphasized its obligation to prevent genocide and expressed deep concerns about the situation in Gaza. The country cited the indiscriminate use of force and the forceful displacement of inhabitants, stating ongoing reports of international crimes, including crimes against humanity, war crimes, and potential acts of genocide within the context of the Gaza conflict.
Israel's National Security Adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, confirmed Israel's decision to participate in the ICJ proceedings, asserting that Israel, as a signatory to the convention against genocide, would not boycott the process. Hanegbi denounced the accusations as an "absurd blood plot" against Israel.
Scheduled for January 11, South Africa will present its oral arguments, followed by Israel's presentation the following day.
Following South Africa's application, Israel's Foreign Ministry spokesperson criticized the claim as exploitation of the court, alleging South Africa's cooperation with a terrorist organization that seeks Israel's destruction.
This legal action follows a series of diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Israel. In November 2023, South Africa recalled its diplomats from Israel, prompting Israel to recall its Ambassador from Pretoria. Moreover, the South African national assembly voted to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel, although the government has yet to formally respond to this vote. These developments underscore the heightened criticism South Africa has directed towards Israel's military operations in Gaza.
(With Agency Inputs)
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