South Africa condemned Israel’s blockade of food to Gaza, labeling it a weapon of war. The statement highlights the humanitarian crisis faced by Gazans and calls for international accountability. Following a ceasefire agreement, Israel’s renewed blockade has sparked conflict with Hamas. South Africa’s case at the ICJ alleges violations of the 1948 Genocide Convention, with support from various nations. Israel’s military actions in the West Bank also faced condemnation for threatening Palestinian self-determination.
On Wednesday, South Africa issued a stern condemnation of Israel’s blockade preventing food from entering Gaza. The South African government accused the Israeli regime of utilizing starvation as a weapon of war against the Palestinian people, stating that this act continues the ongoing campaign that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has described as potentially genocidal. They emphasized the urgent humanitarian needs of the people in Gaza, highlighting their suffering and the necessity for food, shelter, and medical supplies.
The South African statement called upon the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. A ceasefire agreement established in January had initially permitted humanitarian aid into Gaza, but on March 2, Israel announced a halt to aid deliveries until Hamas agreed to its conditions for extending the ceasefire. Israel expressed its desire to prolong the ceasefire until mid-April, which Hamas opposes, advocating instead for a transition to a more permanent agreement that would end the violence.
In December 2023, South Africa presented a case to the ICJ, asserting that Israeli actions during the conflict in Gaza violated the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention. Since then, various nations, including Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Spain, and Turkey, have supported this assertion, lending political weight to South Africa’s claims.
Additionally, South Africa denounced Israel’s military actions in the occupied West Bank, particularly in Jenin, where the assault has intensified following the January ceasefire. The government labeled these operations as a dangerous escalation that jeopardizes the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and statehood. Israel has justified its operations as necessary to combat Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters in the region, despite the displacement of numerous individuals caused by the violence.
In conclusion, South Africa’s condemnation of Israel’s blockade on Gaza reflects significant international concern regarding humanitarian crises and human rights violations. By calling for accountability and presenting a case to the ICJ, South Africa aligns itself with a growing coalition of nations advocating for Palestinian rights. The ongoing conflict and military operations in both Gaza and the West Bank further complicate the already dire humanitarian situation, underscoring the urgent need for resolution and support for the affected populations.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
