South Africa condemned Israeli air strikes on Gaza, citing violations of international law and humanitarian concerns, following a cease-fire violation. The DIRCO highlighted the humanitarian crisis and called for humanitarian access due to the ongoing blockade. Israeli air strikes in southern Syria were also condemned, which added to the regional tensions.
On March 19, 2024, South Africa publicly condemned the recent Israeli air strikes on Gaza, labeling them as “a blatant violation of international law,” according to a statement from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). The strikes occurred amid stalled peace negotiations and a failure by Israel to fulfill the second phase of a peace agreement.
The DIRCO criticized the air strikes targeting densely populated areas, makeshift schools, and residential buildings. They asserted that these actions infringe upon international humanitarian law. Moreover, South Africa expressed deep concern for the civilian population in Gaza, highlighting severe food and water shortages due to Israel’s blockade and recent forced displacement orders.
Additionally, DIRCO referenced provisional orders from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which compel Israel to take preventive measures against genocide, ensure humanitarian access to Gaza, and preserve related evidence. The situation in Gaza escalated, with reports indicating at least 413 fatalities resulting from the attacks, effectively breaking a cease-fire that had been in place for nearly two months.
South Africa also condemned Israeli air strikes in southern Syria, which resulted in casualties among civilians. Furthermore, in December 2023, South Africa sought an ICJ ruling to halt Israeli hostilities towards Palestine, labeling them as genocidal acts. The following month, the UN court mandated that Israel must take all necessary precautions to avert acts of genocide and facilitate humanitarian aid.
South Africa has criticized Israeli air strikes on Gaza, labelling them as violations of international law and expressing grave concern over the humanitarian crisis in the region. The DIRCO highlighted ongoing international legal obligationsIsrael has to prevent genocide and ensure humanitarian assistance. The escalating violence and blockade against Gaza presents severe challenges for its civilian population, prompting extensive international scrutiny and condemnation.
Original Source: english.news.cn
