South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking food aid to Gaza, labeling it as a use of starvation in warfare and a possible genocide, as ruled by the ICJ. The country called for international accountability while also criticizing Israel’s military actions in the occupied West Bank, which threaten Palestinian aspirations for statehood.
On Wednesday, South Africa issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s actions, specifically regarding the blockade of essential food supplies into the Gaza Strip. The South African government stated that Israel is using starvation as a method of warfare against the people of Gaza, drawing attention to the situation as one that likely constitutes genocide, per the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) ruling.
In its statement, South Africa emphasized the grave humanitarian crisis faced by the residents of Gaza, highlighting their urgent need for food, shelter, and medical supplies. Furthermore, South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
A ceasefire agreement from January has previously allowed for the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza; however, on March 2, Israel announced a suspension of those deliveries until Hamas accepted certain conditions regarding the ceasefire. While Israel seeks to extend this ceasefire, Hamas advocates for a transition to a more permanent solution that would end Israel’s violent campaign against the Palestinian people.
In December 2023, South Africa presented a case at the ICJ, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention. This initiative has gained support from several other nations including Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Spain, and Turkey.
South Africa has also criticized Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, particularly in Jenin, which have escalated following the ceasefire agreement. The South African government labels these operations as a serious escalation that jeopardizes Palestinian aspirations for self-determination and statehood, stating that Israel’s military actions have resulted in significant displacement among the civilian population.
In summary, South Africa has taken a decisive stance against Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza, framing it as a form of warfare and potential genocide. The call for accountability from the international community underscores the urgent humanitarian needs in the region. Furthermore, the escalation of Israeli operations in the occupied West Bank further complicates the geopolitical landscape, threatening the pursuit of Palestinian statehood.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
