South Africa has condemned Israel for restricting humanitarian aid to Gaza, deeming it a weapon of war. The country emphasizes the urgent need for assistance amidst claims of genocidal actions. Additionally, South Africa criticizes Israel’s military operations in the West Bank and calls for international intervention and accountability regarding these issues.
On Wednesday, South Africa publicly condemned Israel for its restriction of humanitarian aid to Gaza, which commenced over the weekend. Officials described these actions as tantamount to using starvation as a weapon of war. A brief ceasefire since January had allowed for substantial aid to flow into the region, until Israel declared it would halt deliveries until Hamas consented to its conditions for extending the ceasefire.
The South African foreign ministry asserted that blocking food aid constitutes a continuation of Israel’s strategy to employ starvation in the ongoing conflict. This position aligns with Pretoria’s case against Israel currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has linked Israel’s actions to plausible genocide allegations against the Palestinian populace. The ministry emphasized the urgent need for food, shelter, and medical supplies for the people in Gaza.
South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. While Israel aims to extend the current ceasefire phase until mid-April, Hamas insists on progressing to a second phase that would ideally culminate in a permanent cessation of hostilities.
In December 2023, South Africa initiated legal proceedings at the ICJ, alleging that Israel’s military actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a charge that Israel vehemently refutes. Other nations, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya, have shown support for South Africa’s position in these proceedings. However, while ICJ rulings are legally binding, the court lacks enforceable power.
Additionally, South Africa condemned Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, noting an increased presence in areas of Jenin city. Reports indicate multiple fatalities resulting from the conflict, with Israeli military sources confirming at least three deaths, though Palestinian officials claim the number is two. South Africa characterized this military escalation as a significant threat to Palestinian self-determination and statehood aspirations, warning of potential re-establishment of full military occupation in the West Bank.
In conclusion, South Africa’s condemnation of Israel’s recent actions in Gaza and the West Bank highlights its firm stance on humanitarian issues and international law. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns over potential war crimes, with South Africa advocating for accountability and intervention from the global community. These developments underscore the need for a comprehensive resolution to ensure peace and aid access to those affected by the conflict.
Original Source: news.az
