THE HAGUE: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) resumed its hearings today for the trial against Israel on charges of committing the crime of genocide in the Gaza Strip, based on a lawsuit filed by South Africa and supported by dozens of nations, marking a historic precedent in the Palestinian question.

In today’s session, the court is hearing Israel’s response to the lawsuit brought against it by South Africa. The proceedings began yesterday, with South Africa presenting a meticulous 84-page dossier to the court, compiling evidence of Israel’s deliberate killing of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza. The document argues that Israel created conditions conducive to “physically destroying them,” constituting a crime of “genocide.”

The focus of the initial hearings was exclusively on South Africa’s request for urgent measures compelling Israel to suspend its military offensive in Gaza. The court’s proceedings commenced with an opening statement by South Africa’s Minister of Justice Ronald Lamola, followed b
y a presentation by South Africa’s representative before the court.

The legal action brought by South Africa against Israel has garnered significant support, both regionally and globally. The case, filed before the International Court of Justice, challenges Israel’s actions as an occupying force.

Since October 7 of last year, the Israeli occupation has waged a destructive war on the Gaza Strip, resulting in an ongoing humanitarian crisis. The toll includes over 23,000 fatalities, 59,000 injuries-70% of which are women and children-and more than 7,000 individuals still missing under the rubble.

The devastating impact extends to massive infrastructure damage, creating an unprecedented health and humanitarian catastrophe.

Source: Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA