South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking aid deliveries into Gaza, accusing it of weaponizing starvation as a tactic in conflict. This action, they argue, constitutes genocide, a case currently with the International Court of Justice. South Africa urges the international community to take accountability, highlighting the urgent needs for humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
South Africa condemned Israel’s recent decision to impede humanitarian aid to Gaza, accusing the nation of weaponizing starvation in the ongoing conflict. As of Sunday, Israel has restricted aid deliveries, demanding that Hamas accept terms to prolong a fragile ceasefire in the region.
The South African government characterized these actions as part of a broader campaign of starvation that may constitute genocide, a claim currently under review by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Furthermore, South Africa described the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, highlighting the critical shortages of food, shelter, and medical supplies in the area.
The previously established ceasefire, which permitted aid into Gaza since January, is now threatened, with reports indicating that Israel wishes to extend the truce until mid-April. In contrast, Hamas is advocating for the next phase of the agreement, aiming for a permanent cessation of hostilities.
In December 2023, South Africa filed a legal case with the ICJ, accusing Israel of infringing the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a claim that Israel has vehemently refuted. Other nations, such as Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, and Turkey, have expressed their support for South Africa’s position regarding the situation in Gaza.
South Africa has taken a firm stance against Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza, labeling it as the use of starvation as a weapon of war. The country’s claims of potential genocide against Israel are under evaluation by the ICJ. With the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, South Africa calls for global accountability and support to alleviate the dire needs of the region’s inhabitants.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
