By Janet Ekstract ISTANBUL – On January 11, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) began hearing South Africa’s claims of genocide against Israel. The claims made by South African lawyers included one that said Israel gave authority at the highest level to destroy Gaza. The ICJ will only bring an opinion on the genocide accusations but the court could order Israel to end its military operations in Gaza as South Africa has demanded. Israel presents its defense on Friday, January 12. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa commented: “Our opposition to the ongoing slaughter of the people of Gaza has driven us as a countr to approach the ICJ.” Meanwhile, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog labeled the accusations as “atrocious and preposterous.”
Analysts have indicated that the ICJ could return with a decision quickly on South Africa’s request that Israel suspend its military campaign but a final ruling on whether Israel committed genocide could take years. South Africa and its governing African National Congress have long been a critic of Israel’s dealings with Palestinians and has a long history of solidarity with the Palestinian cause. South Africa sees parallels with its own struggle against apartheid. In addition, South Africa has been very critical of Israel’s military operation in Gaza. A lawyer for the High Court of South Africa, Tembeka Ngcukaitobi told the ICJ that Israel’s “genocidal intent” was evident based on how Israel conducted its military attacks. As Ngcukaitobi said: “The intent to destroy Gaza has been nurtured at the highest level of state.” He added: “Every day there is mounting, irreparable loss of life, property, dignity and humanity for the Palestinian people.” Another lawyer representing South Africa, Adila Hassim said: “Nothing will stop the suffering, except an order from this court.” The ICJ is also known as the World Court and is one of six main branches of the U.N. with its purpose to deal with disputes between states according to international law. The ICJ also issues advisory opinions on international legal issues.
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