THE HAGUE: South Africa has accused Israel of committing genocidal acts against Palestinians in the opening hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The case, which Israel deems baseless, addresses South Africa’s concerns regarding the Israeli military campaign in Gaza.
Reacting to the proceedings, Palestinian Officials said that South Africa’s case at the ICJ is seen as a historic event in the joint struggle of Palestinians and South Africans against injustice and genocide. Holding Israel accountable through legal means and international institutions is a key focus of the State of Palestine’s legal strategy and diplomatic efforts. The statement emphasizes the failure of the international community to take practical steps in holding Israel accountable and calls for justice.
Basem Naim, a Political Official, welcomed the convening of the case and expressed anticipation for a court decision that achieves justice for Palestinian victims, ends aggression on Gaza, and holds war criminals accountable. “We are looking forward to seeing a decision by the court that would achieve justice for the (Palestinian) victims, end the aggression on Gaza, and hold the war criminals accountable.”
Sami Abu Zuhri, Hamas Spokesman, highlighted the Palestinian people’s keen interest in the court session and urged the court to resist external pressures, emphasizing the need for a decision that criminalizes the Israeli occupation and halts aggression on Gaza.
