South Africa Brings War Crimes Charges Against Israel at ICJ; Puts Gaza Ceasefire on Hold

On Friday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will deliver a ruling on South Africa’s request to halt Israel’s offensive in Gaza, specifically targeting Rafah. South Africa has asked the ICJ, also known as the World Court, to intervene and protect the Palestinian people from further harm. This emergency measure is part of a larger case where South Africa accuses Israel of genocide.

Israel has strongly denied the allegations made by South Africa, arguing that they are not violating the Genocide Convention from 1948. Despite their objections, the ICJ has rejected Israel’s demand to dismiss the case and ordered them to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians. However, the court has not yet issued a ceasefire order for Israeli military operations.

South Africa has requested additional emergency measures to ensure Rafah’s safety, where many Palestinians seek refuge. They have also demanded greater access to Gaza for UN officials, humanitarian organizations, journalists, and investigators. Israel launched its offensive in response to attacks by Hamas-led militants, causing significant casualties among Palestinians.

In a separate development, the prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his defense chief, and three Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes. The ICC prosecutes individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide while the ICJ handles disputes between states at the highest UN level.