The South African government allocated R37 million to a genocide case against Israel, totaling R130 million. The SAZF condemned this expenditure as misusing taxpayer funds amid economic crises like high unemployment and housing shortages. The ICJ has ruled on the matter, allowing South Africa to proceed with its claims based on allegations against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The South African government has decided to allocate 37 million South African Rands (approximately $2 million) towards its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This allocation contributes to the total funding of R130 million (over $7 million) designated for this legal action, drawing condemnation from the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF).
In a public statement, the SAZF criticized the allocation as an inappropriate use of taxpayer money, highlighting South Africa’s pressing economic challenges. The federation noted an unemployment rate of approximately 35%, skyrocketing to 60% among youth, alongside ongoing issues such as a broken healthcare system, widespread power outages, and inadequate housing for 2.3 million households. They deemed this spending “reckless waste” during such a critical period.
The federation also addressed the ICJ’s preliminary ruling, indicating it did not validate South Africa’s claim of genocide, yet the government mischaracterized this decision as a success to further its legal actions against Israel. They emphasized that the true perpetrators of genocide are Hamas, particularly referencing the attacks on October 7.
In 2024, South Africa budgeted R95 million for similar legal endeavors against Israel, signifying a sustained effort in international litigation. The legal proceedings commenced in December 2023, accusing Israel of breaching the Genocide Convention. A ruling in January 2024 confirmed the Palestinians’ plausible right to protection and allowed South Africa to pursue its claims. Subsequently, provisional measures were put in place against Israel.
By October 2024, South Africa presented a Memorial to the ICJ asserting that Israel’s actions promote destruction in the Gaza Strip, thereby violating the Genocide Convention.
In conclusion, South Africa’s government allocation of funds for its case against Israel at the ICJ has sparked significant criticism from the SAZF, emphasizing fiscal irresponsibility amidst national economic strife. The ongoing legal battle highlights serious allegations regarding adherence to the Genocide Convention, while drawing attention to the broader context of regional violence attributed to groups like Hamas.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
