THE HAGUE, May 16 – South Africa has called on the United Nations’ top court to intervene and halt Israel’s military actions in Rafah, Gaza. During a session at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), South Africa’s ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, appealed for an immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.
The hearings, spanning two days, are part of a case initiated by South Africa, accusing Israel of committing genocide. Israel has dismissed the allegations as unfounded and will present its response on Friday.
Last week, South Africa requested emergency measures to safeguard Rafah, where over a million Palestinians have sought refuge. The country also urged the court to mandate Israel to grant unhindered access to Gaza for UN officials, humanitarian aid organizations, journalists, and investigators.
South Africa’s legal representatives told the court that Israel’s military campaign has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of children and women, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and widespread starvation. Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, a member of the legal team, asserted that Israel’s objective has been to eradicate Palestinian life, with Rafah being the final battleground. Adila Hassim, another lawyer for South Africa, called on the court to use its authority to stop Israel’s actions.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry, in a social media post, refuted South Africa’s claims as both morally and factually incorrect. It stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operate in accordance with international law, aiming to minimize civilian casualties while continuing to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. The ministry accused Hamas of manipulating South Africa to exploit the ICJ.
Health officials in Gaza reported that at least 35,272 Palestinians have died in Israel’s seven-month assault. The conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 253 abductions, with 133 individuals still believed to be held captive in Gaza according to Israeli sources.
