March 07, 2024.
The Hague, Netherlands | South Africa has called upon the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to implement urgent measures against Israel amid its continued military engagement in Gaza. The request, aimed at mitigating the severe humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians.
The appeal to the ICJ, disclosed on Wednesday, follows reports of escalating violence and the looming threat of famine affecting the residents of Gaza. South Africa’s plea emphasizes the immediate need for a cessation of hostilities and the release of all hostages and detainees to prevent further humanitarian disaster.
The South African presidency, in a touching statement, highlighted the critical condition of the Gaza populace, stating, “The threat of all-out famine has now materialized. The court needs to act now to stop the imminent tragedy by immediately and effectively ensuring that the rights it has found are threatened under the Genocide Convention are protected.”
Furthermore, the request elaborates on the necessity for Israel to facilitate the provision of essential services and humanitarian aid urgently required to combat famine and starvation in Gaza. This call for action is grounded in the “extreme urgency of the situation,” advocating for immediate measures without the delay of additional hearings.
South Africa’s urgent appeal is based on the argument that Israel’s extended military operations in Rafah pose a significant threat to the rights of Palestinians, prompting the need for ICJ’s intervention to prevent further violations. Citing Article 75 of the Rules of Court, South Africa underscores the ICJ’s capacity to act decisively in circumstances demanding provisional measures to safeguard against irreparable damage.
The government’s submission to the ICJ raises grave concerns over the repercussions of Israel’s military strategy in Rafah, characterized by large scale destruction and potential breaches of the Genocide Convention, as well as previous orders by the court dated 26 January 2024.
