South Africa Condemns Israel for Tragic Deaths of Palestinians Awaiting Aid
South Africa has strongly condemned the killing of over 100 Palestinians seeking aid in Gaza, asserting that the incident violates provisional orders issued by the World Court. This development is part of an ongoing legal case where South Africa accuses Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip.
Gaza health authorities reported on Thursday that Israeli forces were responsible for the deaths of more than 100 Palestinians attempting to reach a relief convoy. Israel, in turn, attributed most of the casualties to crowds surrounding aid trucks, stating that many victims were either trampled or run over. However, an Israeli official acknowledged that Israeli troops had, in a limited response, fired on crowds perceived as threatening.
In response to the tragic incident, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation issued a statement expressing condemnation for the “massacre of 112 Palestinians and the injury of hundreds more as they sought life-saving aid.” The statement categorizes this event as another violation of international law and the binding provisional orders of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The ICJ, in a case initiated by South Africa, had previously ordered Israel in January to take all necessary measures to prevent its troops from committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Israel, while denying allegations of genocide, insisted on its right to defend itself. The South African statement indicated that Israel had submitted a report to the ICJ, and Pretoria was preparing a response to it.
The call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire is emphasized in the South African statement as a moral imperative and a life-saving necessity. This aligns with the broader international concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging parties involved to prioritize peace and the well-being of the affected population.
As the legal proceedings unfold and tensions persist in the region, South Africa’s stance underscores its commitment to upholding international law and seeking justice for the victims in Gaza. The call for a ceasefire reflects not only a diplomatic position but also a pressing humanitarian concern, emphasizing the urgent need to address the escalating crisis and prevent further loss of life.
