South African lawyers have accused Israel of planning the “destruction” of Gaza at the highest state level, as revealed in a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The claims, part of a case accusing Israel of genocide, assert that the military attacks show “genocidal intent.” Israel, set to present its defense on Friday, strongly denies the accusations, calling them “baseless.” The court, closely monitoring the case, will only deliver an opinion on the genocide allegation.
Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, representing South Africa, emphasized Israel’s “genocidal intent” in conducting military attacks, claiming it originates from the highest state level. Adila Hassim, also representing South Africa, urged the court to order Israel to cease military operations in Gaza, citing the ongoing loss of life, property, dignity, and humanity for Palestinians.
In its defense, Israel argues that its actions are justified responses to Hamas’s attacks. However, South Africa’s Justice Minister Ronald Lamola stated that no attack can justify breaches of the Genocide Convention, to which Israel is a signatory.
The ICJ, the UN’s highest court, based in The Hague, can provide legally binding opinions but lacks enforceability. In 2022, an order for Russia to suspend military operations in Ukraine was ignored. Genocide, under international law, involves acts intending to destroy part of a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
Outside the ICJ, clashes erupted between Palestinian and Israeli supporters, with calls for a ceasefire. Israel’s delegation inside the court is expected to assert its right to self-defense, emphasizing no intention to permanently displace Gazans.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed opposition to the “slaughter” in Gaza, leading the country to approach the ICJ. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the accusations “atrocious,” pledging a proud presentation of their case in court.
The ICJ may quickly rule on South Africa’s request to suspend Israel’s military campaign, but a final genocide ruling could take years. South Africa, critical of Israel’s Gaza operations, draws parallels with its apartheid struggle, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Gaza has witnessed over 23,350 deaths, mostly women and children, since the war’s start after Hamas’s October 7 attacks on southern Israel, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The ICJ’s decision holds significance in the ongoing international scrutiny of the conflict.
