The International Court of Justice, commonly known as The Hague, has delivered its verdict on South Africa’s case regarding the immediate cessation of military operations in Gaza, particularly in Rafah, by Israel.
President Nawaf Salam of the International Court of Justice announced that Israel initiated a military operation in Rafah on May 7, prompting the court to hear South Africa’s application. The majority decision, with 13 in favor and 2 against, ordered Israel to halt its military operations in Rafah immediately and report back to the court within one month regarding the actions taken to comply with the ruling.
President Salam emphasized the extensive destruction of Gaza City’s infrastructure and the loss of numerous lives due to Israel’s actions, which continue to unfold. He noted that following the influx of millions seeking refuge in Rafah from Gaza, Israel initiated military operations in the area, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. The court found Israel’s actions and arguments unsatisfactory, citing its failure to implement previous decisions and provide substantial evidence of human rights compliance.
South Africa accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza and urged the court to intervene to prevent similar devastation in Rafah. Israel’s defense countered by dismissing the evidence presented by South Africa as biased, attributing it to Hamas.
This verdict follows a similar case in January, where the International Court of Justice instructed Israel to take measures to mitigate the impact of its military operations, including halting them altogether. Despite warnings from allies, including the United States, about the potential loss of innocent lives, Israel proceeded with its military operations, leading to South Africa’s appeal to the International Court of Justice.
The arguments presented by both parties have been considered, and the court has now rendered its decision, signaling a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
