South Africa Strongly Condemns Israel’s Aid Block to Gaza

South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking food aid to Gaza, accusing it of using starvation as a weapon of war. The nation has brought a case against Israel to the ICJ, arguing a violation of the UN Genocide Convention. South Africa also criticizes recent military operations in the West Bank, which threaten Palestine’s pursuit of self-determination.

On Wednesday, South Africa delivered a strong condemnation of Israel for obstructing food aid to the besieged Gaza Strip. The South African Foreign Ministry asserted that Israel’s actions exemplify the deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war against the Palestinian population. The ministry referenced Pretoria’s ongoing case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which argues that Israel’s actions amount to plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.

The statement highlighted the severe plight of Gazans, who are in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical supplies. South Africa urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Following a ceasefire agreement made in January, humanitarian aid had been permitted into Gaza; however, on March 2, Israel announced a blockade of aid deliveries until Hamas accepted their conditions for extending the ceasefire.

Notably, Israel seeks to maintain the initial phase of the ceasefire until mid-April, while Hamas has called for a transition to a second phase that would ensure a comprehensive end to Israeli aggression. In December 2023, South Africa initiated an ICJ case alleging that Israel’s behavior during the conflict constitutes a violation of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention. A number of countries, including Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Spain, and Turkey, have since supported South Africa’s position.

Moreover, South Africa has expressed concern over Israel’s increased military operations in the occupied West Bank, particularly in Jenin, which commenced after the ceasefire took effect. Describing these operations as a significant escalation, South Africa indicated that they jeopardize the Palestinian struggle for self-determination and statehood. Despite Israel’s claims of targeting Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives in the territory, its actions have repeatedly led to the displacement of thousands of individuals.

In summary, South Africa vehemently criticizes Israel for its blockade of food aid to Gaza, underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis faced by its inhabitants. The nation is actively pursuing legal accountability through the International Court of Justice while denouncing Israel’s military actions in the West Bank. The situation remains tense as political dynamics between Israel and Hamas continue to evolve, impacting the broader quest for Palestinian statehood.

Original Source: en.mehrnews.com

About Carmen Mendez

Carmen Mendez is an engaging editor and political journalist with extensive experience. After completing her degree in journalism at Yale University, she worked her way up through the ranks at various major news organizations, holding positions from staff writer to editor. Carmen is skilled at uncovering the nuances of complex political scenarios and is an advocate for transparent journalism.

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