THE HAGUE: The United Nations’ top court will hear submissions next week from South Africa and Israel following Pretoria opened a case regarding Israel’s “genocidal” acts in the Gaza Strip.
South Africa has urged the ICJ to promptly instruct Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza. The ICJ has announced public hearings at the Peace Palace in The Hague on Thursday and Friday to address the case initiated by South Africa against Israel.
In its filing last Friday, South Africa invoked the Genocide Convention, alleging serious violations by Israel and asserting that Israel has, is, and may continue to engage in genocidal actions against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Among its requests, South Africa is asking the ICJ to order Israel to immediately cease its military operations in Gaza and for both parties to take all reasonable steps within their power to prevent genocide.
Since October 7, Israel has initiated a military campaign targeting the people of Palestine in Gaza. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the ongoing offensive by Israel has resulted in the deaths of more than 22,300 individuals, with a majority being children and women.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), created in the aftermath of World War II, serves as the United Nations’ premier legal platform. It adjudicates disputes between nations.
