South Africa condemned Israel for restricting aid to Gaza, labeling it as the use of starvation in warfare. The nation highlighted suffering in Gaza and called for international accountability. With ongoing tensions, South Africa has also brought a case before the ICJ against Israel regarding genocide allegations, supported by various nations.
On Wednesday, South Africa expressed condemnation towards Israel for restricting humanitarian aid to Gaza, viewing it as a method of warfare utilizing starvation. Aid had flowed into Gaza during a fragile ceasefire since January; however, Israel announced on Sunday that aid deliveries would be suspended until Hamas agreed to terms for extending the truce.
The South African foreign ministry stated, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the ICJ ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.” Additionally, they highlighted the urgent needs of the Gazan population for food, shelter, and medical supplies.
Furthermore, South Africa called upon the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Israel seeks to prolong the ceasefire until mid-April, but Hamas demands a transition to a subsequent phase leading to a permanent resolution of the conflict.
In December 2023, South Africa initiated a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), asserting violations of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, which Israel has categorically denied. Several countries, including Spain and Turkey, have supported this initiative.
Although ICJ rulings are legally binding, the court lacks mechanisms for enforcement. In addition, South Africa condemned Israel’s military actions in the occupied West Bank, noting an offensive that has resulted in additional fatalities and increased military presence, which South Africa deemed a grave escalation threatening Palestinian self-determination.
In summary, South Africa has condemned Israel for its actions in Gaza, categorizing the restriction of humanitarian aid as a tactic of starvation in warfare. The nation has called for accountability within the international community, while simultaneously criticizing Israel’s military operations in the West Bank. Efforts through the International Court of Justice continue as South Africa seeks to address perceived violations under international law.
Original Source: news.az
