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 wants to International Court of Justice (ICJ) to immediately order Israel to suspend its military operations in the Gaza Strip.
The World Court “will hold public hearings at the Peace Palace in The Hague… in hearing instituted by South Africa against Israel,” on Thursday and Friday, the ICJ announced.
ICJ to Hear South Africa’s Genocide Petition Against Israel Next Week: Statement
The South African plea, filed last Friday, linked to serious violations by Israel of its obligations as per the Genocide Convention, adding that “Israel has engaged in, is engaging in and risks more engaging in genocidal actions against the people of Palestine in the Gaza Strip.”
South Africa, amongst other immediate steps, is asking the ICJ to order that “Israel shall immediately end its military operations in Gaza” and that both sides “take all reasonable steps within their power to stop genocide.”
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Israel launched a military campaign against people of Palestine in Gaza since October 7. Israel’s current Gaza offensive has killed over 22,300 people, mostly children and women, Gaza Health Ministry said.
Established following the World War II, the ICJ is the UN’s highest legal forum and rules in disputes between nations.
