THE HAGUE: South Africa’s Minister of Justice, Ronald Lamola, stood firm today outside the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, maintaining that Israel has failed to refute South Africa’s lawsuit accusing the occupying regime of committing the crime of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
“The State of Israel today has failed to disprove South Africa’s compelling case that was presented before the ICJ yesterday. We stand by the facts, the law, and all the evidence we have submitted,” Lamola asserted. Despite Israel’s defense today, South Africa maintains its belief that Israel is acting in violation of the Genocide Convention.
“There is nothing justifying the way Israel wages war on Gaza. Self-defense does not justify genocide,” Lamola continued. “We are confident that we have presented a comprehensive case, and Israel attempted to demonize us. The United Nations itself acknowledged the obstruction of relief missions in Gaza, and the only solution is to stop the war.”
Lamola expressed his c
onfidence that the International Court of Justice will compel Israel to take interim measures to halt the war on Gaza. The ICJ resumed its sessions on Friday, hearing Israel’s response to South Africa’s accusations.
In Thursday’s initial session, South Africa submitted a meticulously compiled 84-page dossier, presenting evidence of Israel’s deliberate killing of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza. The focus was on South Africa’s request for urgent measures compelling Israel to suspend its military offensive.
The legal action taken by South Africa against Israel has garnered significant support globally, challenging Israel’s actions as an occupying force. Lamola expressed gratitude for international support, emphasizing that South Africa seeks justice for the Palestinian people.
Since October 7, Israel’s destructive offensive in Gaza has resulted in a devastating toll of over 23,000 fatalities, 59,000 injuries, and a significant humanitarian crisis. The ICJ proceedings mark a historic precedent in the longst
anding Palestinian question.
Source: Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA