South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking aid to Gaza, alleging that it is weaponizing starvation. The country argues that this tactic could be classified as genocide, a case under review by the ICJ. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with calls for urgent international intervention. Meanwhile, negotiations for extending a ceasefire are ongoing but fraught with challenges.
South Africa has officially condemned Israel’s recent decision to halt aid deliveries to Gaza, alleging that Israel is employing starvation as a tactic of warfare. This action follows Israel’s demand that Hamas agrees to specific conditions for an extension of the currently fragile ceasefire in the region.
The South African government expressed that this blockade perpetuates Israel’s ongoing campaign of starvation, a situation it characterizes as potentially genocidal. This assertion is currently being examined by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
In its declaration, South Africa highlighted the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, including food, medical supplies, and shelter. The South African government has appealed to the global community to hold Israel accountable for these actions.
The ceasefire, which facilitated aid into Gaza since January, is now threatened. Israel is reportedly seeking to extend the truce until mid-April, whereas Hamas advocates for transitioning to a permanent cessation of hostilities as part of the next phase of negotiations.
South Africa’s legal case now before the ICJ claims that Israel is in violation of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, an allegation that Israel has vehemently rejected. Support for South Africa’s position has also been voiced by other nations such as Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, and Turkey.
In summary, South Africa has accused Israel of weaponizing starvation in Gaza by blocking aid, which it deems potentially genocidal. This situation has prompted South Africa to pursue legal action at the ICJ while urging international accountability. The ceasefire is at risk, and negotiations for a lasting resolution continue amidst escalating tensions.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
