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The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has made a significant ruling affirming its jurisdiction to hear South Africa’s petition against Israel concerning alleged genocide in Gaza. In a groundbreaking decision, a sixteen-member bench rejected Israel’s plea to dismiss the case, with Judge Joan Donoghue stating that some allegations against Israel align with the provisions of the Genocide Convention.
The ICJ president highlighted that Palestinians seem to be a protected group under the convention. The court acknowledged the severe impact of Israel’s military operation in Gaza, resulting in a substantial number of casualties, injuries, widespread destruction of homes, forced displacement of the majority of the population, and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. Judge Donoghue referenced a statement by UN official Martin Griffiths, describing Gaza as a place of death and despair.
Read more : South Africa Lodges Genocide Complaint Against Israel
This ruling marks the preliminary stage of the case brought by South Africa to the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. South Africa has requested urgent measures, including the suspension of military operations, a cessation of further escalation, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid into the region. While a complete ceasefire may not be mandated, the court could instruct Israel to allow sufficient humanitarian relief into Gaza.
It’s crucial to note that the ICJ’s rulings are final and cannot be appealed, though they lack enforcement mechanisms. Israel maintains that the ICJ lacks jurisdiction in this case and rejects South Africa’s allegations of genocide as “grossly distorted” and “blood libel.” Hamas has expressed readiness to adhere to any ICJ ceasefire directives if reciprocated by Israel.
The context of the conflict reveals that at least 25,900 Palestinians have lost their lives, and 64,110 have been wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October of the previous year. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of the conflict, with legal implications brought before the ICJ to address alleged violations of international law.
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