South Africa accuses Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip – a lengthy trial at the International Court of Justice is underway. But he is already deciding today on an urgent request for an immediate end to military action.
Amid fierce fighting in the Gaza Strip, the International Court of Justice in The Hague today announced its first verdict in the genocide case against Israel. This is not about a substantive charge of genocide, but an urgent application for protective measures for the Palestinian people.
According to the court order, the result will be declared at 1 pm. South Africa wants the UN court to urgently order Israel to immediately end its military operations in the Gaza Strip for violating the Genocide Agreement.
The decision could increase pressure on Israel
However, a final verdict in key proceedings may take years. Decisions of the court are binding. However, he had no way of making it work.
Nevertheless, the UN Supreme Court's condemnation will increase political pressure on Israel. The judges could also order Israel to report on measures taken to protect Palestinians. It will also have a significant external impact.
Israel denies the allegations
South Africa filed a lawsuit against Israel in late December, accusing the country of violating the Genocide Convention. This is the first time that Israel has faced a charge of genocide before the UN Court. Israel, the United States and the German federal government consider the case baseless.
At a hearing at the Peace Palace in The Hague two weeks ago, Israel's representative firmly rejected the allegations. Israeli Foreign Ministry legal adviser Dal Becker said Israel is at war with Hamas, but not with the Palestinian people. Israel also rejected demands for a halt to military action. It was argued that this would take away the country's right to self-defense.
The Hamas assassination triggered the war
The cause of the Gaza war is the devastating massacre by the terrorist organization Hamas and other extremists in Israel on October 7, 2023. According to Israeli figures, 1,140 people were killed and about 250 were kidnapped from Israel – half of whom are still in the hands of Hamas.
In retaliation, Israel launched a major offensive in the Gaza Strip. According to Hamas reports, which cannot be independently verified, 25,000 people have been killed so far. Israel blames the terrorist organization for the civilian casualties and casualties in the Gaza Strip.
