South Africa criticized Israeli air strikes on Gaza, labeling them a violation of international law. The DIRCO expressed concerns over humanitarian issues, including food shortages, and highlighted ICJ rulings reinforcing Israel’s obligations. The condemnation also extends to similar strikes in southern Syria, reflecting broader regional tensions.
On March 19, 2024, South Africa publicly condemned the most recent Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip, deeming them a significant breach of international law. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) issued a statement expressing grave concerns about these air strikes, which occurred amid a breakdown in the peace agreement’s implementation and ongoing negotiations for a cease-fire.
The DIRCO emphasized that the air strikes targeted densely populated neighborhoods, makeshift schools, and residential buildings where civilians were taking refuge. This, it stated, constitutes a “blatant violation of international law, including international humanitarian law.”
Furthermore, South Africa highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where millions are enduring shortages of food and water due to ongoing Israeli blockades of aid and energy supplies. The DIRCO also noted recent forced displacement orders issued by Israel affecting multiple regions.
In light of the provisional orders from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), South Africa pointed out that Israel is legally obligated to take all necessary measures to prevent acts of genocide and ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need in Gaza. Additionally, South Africa condemned Israeli air strikes on southern Syria, which resulted in civilian casualties.
The strikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 413 individuals and threatened to escalate further unless Hamas released hostages. This escalation marked a violation of a cease-fire that had been in place for nearly two months. In December 2023, South Africa sought intervention from the ICJ to compel Israel to cease its attacks against Palestine, pushing for recognition of these actions as genocide. Subsequently, in January 2024, the UN court directed Israel to minimize the risk of genocide and facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries in Gaza.
In summary, South Africa has forcefully condemned the recent Israeli air strikes on Gaza as violations of international law, highlighting the humanitarian crisis caused by blockades. The country has also sought judicial intervention from the ICJ to ensure Israel adheres to humanitarian standards and ceases actions perceived as genocidal. Overall, these developments underscore the critical need for renewed efforts towards peace between Israel and Palestine.
Original Source: english.news.cn
