South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza, arguing it constitutes the use of starvation as a weapon of war. The foreign ministry called for international accountability and highlighted the dire humanitarian situation. Additionally, South Africa criticized Israel’s military operations in the West Bank as a dangerous escalation that threatens Palestinian self-determination.
On Wednesday, South Africa vehemently criticized Israel for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza, asserting that such actions constitute the use of starvation as a weapon of war. This blockade followed a fragile ceasefire established since January, which had allowed for more aid to enter the region before Israel announced its restrictions until Hamas conformed to its demands for a ceasefire extension.
The South African foreign ministry stated that denying food to Gaza perpetuates Israel’s campaign of starvation, describing the situation as potentially genocidal against the Palestinian people, based on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling. They emphasized the dire conditions in Gaza, stating that people are in urgent need of food, shelter, and medical assistance.
South Africa has urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. In contrast, while Israel seeks to prolong the ceasefire until mid-April, Hamas insists on transitioning to a lasting peace agreement that would require a definitive cessation of hostilities.
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case with the ICJ, claiming that Israel’s actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, an allegation that has been categorically rejected by Israel. Several other countries, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya, have expressed their support for this case.
Despite ICJ rulings being legally binding, the court lacks the ability to enforce its decisions independently. Additionally, South Africa condemned Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, which have escalated in scale, particularly in Jenin city, where multiple casualties were reported recently. The South African government labeled these military actions as a dangerous escalation that threatens the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and statehood, indicating an intention to reinforce military occupation levels in the region not seen since 2002.
In conclusion, South Africa’s denunciation of Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza highlights significant humanitarian concerns, framing these actions as a potential violation of international law and an extension of a military strategy aimed at the Palestinian population. The government’s call for accountability from the international community reflects broader geopolitical tensions, particularly in regards to the ongoing conflict and the legal proceedings at the ICJ. Furthermore, the situation in the occupied West Bank adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile dynamics between Israeli and Palestinian entities.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
