The South African Zionist Federation criticized the government for allocating R37 million to a genocide case against Israel at the ICJ, totaling R130 million. They condemned this as a misuse of taxpayer funds amid economic crises, noting the ICJ’s preliminary rulings did not confirm the government’s claims. Further funding for similar legal actions has been set for 2024.
The South African government has drawn criticism from the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) for its allocation of R37 million (approximately $2 million) towards a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The total funds designated for this legal pursuit have reached R130 million (over $7 million), as reported by local media.
The federation labeled this funding as an “appalling misuse of taxpayer funds,” highlighting the nation’s severe economic and social challenges. The organization stated, “At a time when South Africa is in the grip of an economic and social crisis—unemployment at a catastrophic 35%…and a collapsing healthcare system—this reckless waste is indefensible.”
Moreover, the SAZF noted that the ICJ’s preliminary ruling did not affirm South Africa’s genocide claim as plausible, asserting that the government misrepresented this ruling to bolster its legal actions against Israel. They attributed the real perpetration of genocide to Hamas, referencing the catastrophic event on October 7.
In 2024, the South African government allocated an additional R95 million for similar legal efforts against Israel. Earlier in December 2023, South Africa had initiated legal proceedings, alleging Israel’s violations under the Genocide Convention. A subsequent ruling in January 2024 supported the Palestinians’ right to protection, allowing South Africa to proceed with its claim.
In October 2024, South Africa provided a Memorial to the ICJ, accusing Israel of violations related to promoting the destruction of Palestinians in Gaza.
In summary, the South African government has been criticized for funding a genocide case against Israel, amid significant national challenges. The SAZF condemned the financial allocation as an improper use of taxpayer resources. They noted that the ICJ’s preliminary ruling did not support South Africa’s claims, suggesting that the government misrepresented this information to justify its actions. Additionally, further allocations indicate the government’s commitment to pursuing this case.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
