The South African government allocated R37 million for its genocide case against Israel, totaling R130 million. The SAZF condemned this funding as a misuse of taxpayer money during a national crisis, arguing the government misrepresents court rulings. Legal proceedings against Israel began in December 2023, following allegations of violations of the Genocide Convention.
The South African government has allocated 37 million South African Rands, approximately $2 million, towards its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This recent funding has increased the total resources dedicated to this legal action to R130 million, or over $7 million, according to local reports. The South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) has condemned this expenditure, characterizing it as a misuse of taxpayer resources that should instead address pressing domestic issues.
The SAZF expressed deep concern in a statement, highlighting the country’s severe challenges, including an unemployment rate exceeding 35%, a struggling healthcare system, serious energy supply issues, and over 2.3 million households lacking adequate housing. They argued that such waste of resources is inexcusable during this tumultuous period. Furthermore, the federation pointed out that the ICJ’s preliminary ruling did not substantiate South Africa’s claims of genocide against Israel, criticizing the government for misrepresenting this ruling as a legal victory.
In its critique, the SAZF reiterated that Hamas should be held accountable for acts of violence, particularly referencing the massacre on October 7, rather than directing accusations at Israel. The federation also noted that in the upcoming 2024 financial year, the South African government has planned to allocate an additional R95 million for similar actions against Israel.
South Africa initiated legal proceedings against Israel in December 2023, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention. A January 2024 ruling by the ICJ recognized the Palestinians’ entitlement to protection and permitted South Africa to present its case. The court has since issued provisional measures targeting Israel, with South Africa formally submitting a memorial to the ICJ in October 2024, alleging further violations of the Genocide Convention amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In summary, the South African government is diverting substantial taxpayer funds, totaling R130 million, towards an ICJ case against Israel, drawing sharp criticism from the SAZF. Amidst severe socio-economic challenges, the federation has condemned this as a blatant misuse of resources. Furthermore, the government is accused of misrepresenting the legal rulings surrounding the allegations of genocide, with significant fiscal commitments continuing into 2024. This situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding Israel-Palestine relations that remain at the forefront of international legal discourse.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
