South Africa has accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon in Gaza, urging international accountability. A ceasefire had allowed humanitarian aid, but blockages resumed until Hamas agreed to terms. South Africa also condemned Israeli military actions in the West Bank, signaling a dangerous escalation that threatens Palestinian statehood.
On Wednesday, the South African government accused Israel of weaponizing starvation in its ongoing actions in Gaza. The foreign ministry criticized Israel for blocking humanitarian aid deliveries, which follows a fragile ceasefire that had allowed a flow of resources into the region since January. The ministry’s statement referenced South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging that Israel’s actions constitute potential genocide against Palestinian people.
The statement highlighted the dire situation faced by Gaza’s residents, who are in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical supplies. South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for such actions. Israel has expressed a desire to extend the ceasefire until mid-April; however, Hamas has insisted on transitioning to a phase that leads to a permanent end of hostilities.
Additionally, South Africa filed a case at the ICJ in December 2023, claiming that these actions breach the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a charge that Israel firmly disputes. Several nations, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya, have supported South Africa’s proceedings, though the ICJ lacks an enforcement mechanism for its rulings.
Furthermore, South Africa condemned Israel’s military offensives in the occupied West Bank, which have intensified, particularly in Jenin, resulting in casualties. The South African government described this escalation as a threat to the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and statehood, warning that the increase in military presence signals an intention to restore full-scale occupation.
In summary, the South African government has condemned Israel for allegedly using starvation as a weapon of war in Gaza and has called for international accountability. The ongoing conflict has sparked a legal case at the ICJ, which aims to address humanitarian breaches under international law. Moreover, Israel’s military actions in the West Bank further complicate the pursuit of peace and self-determination for Palestinians, raising significant international concerns.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
