South Africa accuses Israel of using starvation as a weapon by blocking aid to Gaza. The statement highlights the urgent humanitarian needs while urging the international community to intervene. Additionally, South Africa denounces Israel’s military offensive in the West Bank, stating it threatens Palestinian statehood.
South Africa has condemned Israel’s denial of humanitarian aid into Gaza, labeling it as a use of starvation as a warfare tactic. The humanitarian access had improved during a fragile ceasefire since January but has been blocked following Israel’s announcement that aid would cease until Hamas accepts conditions for a truce extension.
According to a statement from the South African foreign ministry, the action constitutes a continuation of Israel’s alleged campaign of starvation against the Palestinian population, referring to the ongoing case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ministry stated that the situation is dire, with Gazans in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical supplies.
South Africa has urged the international community to hold Israel accountable, anchoring its stand in the December 2023 ICJ case that claims violations of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention. Countries like Spain, Bolivia, and Turkey have joined South Africa in this legal pursuit. However, ICJ’s rulings, despite being legally binding, lack enforcement mechanisms.
Furthermore, South Africa has denounced Israel’s military actions in the West Bank, particularly in Jenin, where recent operations have reported casualties. The South African government described this escalation as a significant threat to the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and highlighted the increased military presence as a sign of Israel’s intentions to solidify its occupation that began in 1967. The offensive in the northern West Bank, starting on January 21, has resulted in the displacement of thousands and the unprecedented introduction of Israeli tanks in the region in two decades.
In summary, South Africa has taken a firm stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, condemning the blockade of humanitarian aid as starvation tactics in warfare. The nation is actively advocating for accountability through international legal means while emphasizing the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza and the escalating military situation in the West Bank.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
