South Africa accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza

0
150

International Criminal Court’s Role: Existing allegations of war crimes by both Israel and Palestinian militant groups are already under scrutiny at the International Criminal Court (ICC). However, Israel’s non-membership and rejection of ICC’s jurisdiction create uncertainty regarding the impact of the investigation.

Genocide Convention and Apartheid Comparison

Genocide Convention: Both Israel and South Africa are signatories of the Genocide Convention, laying the groundwork for this pivotal case at the ICJ, also known as the World Court.

Apartheid Parallel: South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, drawing parallels, likened Israel’s treatment of Palestinians to apartheid. This striking comparison references the historical racist system that governed South Africa for almost five decades.

Humanitarian Crisis Unfolding

Diplomatic Recall: President Ramaphosa, a former anti-apartheid activist, justified the recall of diplomats, stating the world had “sat helplessly” witnessing escalating airstrikes causing extensive damage to schools, health facilities, ambulances, and civilian infrastructure in Gaza.