South Africa has condemned Israel’s aid blockade in Gaza, claiming it is an act of starvation and urging international accountability. The nation previously filed a case at the ICJ accusing Israel of breaching genocide conventions. Additionally, South Africa denounces Israel’s military operations in the West Bank, which threaten Palestinian self-determination.
On Wednesday, South Africa strongly criticized Israel’s recent blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, describing the act as a use of starvation as a weapon of war. Following a fragile ceasefire that allowed aid into the region, Israel declared on Sunday its decision to stop aid deliveries until Hamas conformed to its conditions for extending the truce.
The South African foreign ministry asserted, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the ICJ ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.” The ministry highlighted the dire conditions facing Gazans, stating they are in urgent need of food, shelter, and medical supplies.
South Africa is pressing the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Despite Israel’s intentions to extend the ceasefire until mid-April, Hamas insists on transitioning towards a permanent resolution following its attack on Israel in October 2023, which ignited the current conflict.
In December 2023, South Africa submitted a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), claiming that Israel’s actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention—a charge vehemently denied by Israel. Various nations including Spain, Bolivia, and Mexico have supported South Africa’s position in this legal matter.
Although ICJ rulings are binding, the court lacks the means to enforce compliance. South Africa condemned Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, which have spread to areas including Jenin city. Reports indicate at least two fatalities amidst this escalation.
The South African government characterized the military presence in the West Bank as a significant escalation, threatening Palestinian aspirations for self-determination. They noted that the current Israeli military activities mark their highest levels in the area since 2002, suggesting an intention to reinforce military occupation. The offensive began on January 21, initially concentrated in areas known for Palestinian militancy, but has since widened, displacing tens of thousands and involving the first deployment of Israeli tanks in two decades.
In summary, South Africa has condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, asserting it constitutes the use of starvation as a weapon of war. The South African government calls for international accountability while highlighting the ongoing suffering in Gaza. Furthermore, it denounces Israel’s increased military aggression in the West Bank, emphasizing the risks posed to Palestinian statehood. The situation continues to evolve amid escalating tensions and international legal processes.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
