South Africa has condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza as a weapon of war leading to starvation. It calls for international accountability, linking the issue to a case brought before the International Court of Justice regarding potential genocide. Additionally, it denounces Israel’s military operations in the West Bank, marking escalating tensions in the region.
On Wednesday, South Africa condemned Israel’s recent restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza, characterizing these actions as a form of starvation utilized as a weapon of war. Following a fragile ceasefire since January, aid previously entered Gaza, but Israel announced on Sunday that it would suspend deliveries until Hamas agreed to its conditions for an extension.
The South African foreign ministry stated, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the ICJ ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.” They further emphasized the dire circumstances in Gaza, calling for urgent humanitarian needs such as food, shelter, and medical supplies.
Additionally, South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. While Israel wishes to prolong the ceasefire until mid-April, Hamas demands a transition to a subsequent phase that would facilitate a permanent resolution to the conflict.
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case with the International Court of Justice (ICJ), asserting that the conflict in Gaza violated the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a claim Israel vehemently disputes. The proceedings have garnered support from several nations including Spain, Bolivia, and Colombia.
It is notable that while ICJ rulings are legally binding, the court lacks effective enforcement mechanisms. South Africa also denounced Israel’s military actions in the occupied West Bank, particularly as the conflict extends to additional areas in Jenin city. The offensive has reportedly resulted in casualties and brings into question the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination.
The South African government’s statement described the increased Israeli military presence as indicative of an intent to restore full-scale occupation, with operations in the West Bank at their highest levels since 2002. The current military engagement in northern West Bank commenced on January 21, targeting areas deemed centers of Palestinian militancy and contributing to significant displacement among those affected.
In conclusion, South Africa has strongly criticized Israel’s blockade on aid to Gaza, equating it to a weapon of war that contributes to starvation among the Palestinian population. The country’s appeals to the international community for accountability highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, South Africa’s legal efforts at the ICJ and its condemnation of Israel’s actions in the West Bank underscore its position against what it perceives as violations of international law and human rights.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
