South Africa condemns Israel for restricting aid to Gaza, claiming it uses starvation as a weapon of war. The nation has also taken legal action against Israel at the ICJ for alleged breaches of the Genocide Convention. Furthermore, South Africa criticizes Israel’s military actions in the West Bank which worsen the situation for Palestinians.
On Wednesday, South Africa publicly condemned Israel for its recent restrictions on aid into Gaza, categorizing these actions as a deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war. This condemnation arises following a fragile ceasefire that had allowed humanitarian aid into Gaza, which Israel has now suspended until Hamas complies with its demands for an extension.
The South African foreign ministry declared, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war… against the Palestinian people,” citing a case brought against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ministry emphasized the urgent need for food, shelter, and medical supplies for the suffering Gazan population.
South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. While Israel expresses a desire to extend the ceasefire, Hamas insists on moving toward a second phase leading to a permanent resolution of the conflict. Notably, South Africa has accused Israel of violating the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention in its ongoing military operations in Gaza, a claim that Israel has categorically denied.
Furthermore, South Africa condemned Israel’s military offensive in the occupied West Bank, which has reportedly intensified, particularly in Jenin city. The South African government highlighted that the offensive represents a significant escalation that undermines the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and statehood. It stated that the current military presence in the West Bank is the highest since 2002, indicating a possible intent to re-establish a full-scale military occupation.
In summary, South Africa has strongly denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza, viewing them as a strategic use of starvation amidst a humanitarian crisis. The nation has called for accountability from the international community while pursuing claims against Israel regarding potential violations of the Genocide Convention. Additionally, South Africa’s criticism extends to Israel’s military operations in the West Bank, which they perceive as a threat to Palestinian self-determination.
Original Source: news.az
