The South African government has allocated 37 million South African Rands for a genocide case against Israel at the ICJ, totaling R130 million. The South African Zionist Federation criticized the government for misusing taxpayer funds, particularly during an economic crisis. They argued that the ICJ ruling did not support the claim against Israel, pointing out the real perpetrators of violence as Hamas.
The South African government has allocated an additional 37 million South African Rands (approximately $2 million) to its ongoing genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This funding brings the total amount designated for this case to R130 million (over $7 million), as reported by local media sources. The allocation has sparked criticism from the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF), which condemned the use of taxpayer funds for this legal endeavor, citing significant socio-economic challenges facing the nation.
The SAZF released a statement decrying what it views as an “appalling misuse of taxpayer funds,” particularly in light of the severe economic crises affecting South Africa. With unemployment rates soaring to 35% (60% among youth) and critical issues such as a failing healthcare system and widespread load-shedding affecting daily life, the federation argues that such expenditures are indefensible. The statement also highlighted that the ICJ’s preliminary ruling did not validate South Africa’s genocide claim against Israel, contradicting government portrayals of the case as successful.
Moreover, the SAZF criticized the government for misrepresenting the ICJ’s preliminary ruling as a victory, asserting it undermines the true nature of the conflict and the role of Hamas. They emphasized that Hamas is responsible for acts of violence, particularly following the tragic events of October 7. In addition, this is not the first allocation for such legal actions, as the government is set to grant R95 million in 2024 for similar purposes.
The legal proceedings against Israel commenced in December 2023, with allegations suggesting Israel’s violation of the Genocide Convention. In January 2024, the ICJ acknowledged the Palestinians’ right to protection, allowing South Africa to submit its claims. Subsequently, provisional measures were imposed against Israel, with South Africa submitting a Memorial to the court in October 2024, accusing Israel of actions that threaten the extinction of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
The South African government has directed substantial financial resources towards a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, prompting strong criticism from the South African Zionist Federation regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds. The SAZF argues that the funding is misplaced in light of dire socio-economic conditions in South Africa. Current legal proceedings charge Israel with breaches of the Genocide Convention, yet the legitimacy of these claims remains contested.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
