Israel staunchly refuted allegations of state-led genocide in Gaza presented by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday. Describing the accusations as “false and grossly distorted,” Israel argued that its military operation in Gaza was a defensive response against Hamas, not an aggression targeted at the Palestinian population.
Lawyer Malcolm Shaw, representing Israel, declared, “This is no genocide,” as the country called on the ICJ to dismiss the case, dismissing it as groundless and urging the rejection of South Africa’s plea to halt the offensive.
Israel initiated the offensive in response to a cross-border incident on October 7 involving Hamas fighters. Officials reported 1,200 casualties, primarily civilians, and 240 hostages taken.
The legal adviser to Israel’s foreign ministry, Tal Becker, argued that the suffering of civilians in both Israel and Palestine was a consequence of Hamas’ strategies. He countered South Africa’s claims, stating, “If there were acts of genocide, they have been perpetrated against Israel,” adding, “Hamas seeks genocide against Israel.”
South Africa had petitioned the ICJ on Thursday, seeking emergency measures to compel Israel to immediately cease its offensive. The country asserted that Israel’s actions aimed at the destruction of Gaza’s population, causing extensive damage and claiming nearly 24,000 lives, according to Gaza health authorities.
In response, Israel emphasized its adherence to international law and its right to self-defense. Deputy Attorney General Gilad Noam asserted, “When the cannons roar in Gaza, the law is not silent.”
The legal proceedings at the ICJ involve potential emergency measures that may be ruled on later this month. However, a verdict on the genocide accusations is not expected at this stage, with those proceedings likely to extend over several years. While the ICJ’s decisions are final, the court lacks means to enforce them.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators marched through The Hague, expressing discontent during the court proceedings. As the Israeli delegation presented its case, chants of “Liar! Liar!” echoed.
Israel contends that South Africa is acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the U.S., EU, UK, and others. South Africa has rejected this accusation.
The offensive in Gaza has displaced nearly all of its 2.3 million inhabitants, creating a severe humanitarian crisis. The geopolitical tensions play out on the international stage, reflecting the deep-rooted historical support of post-apartheid South Africa for the Palestinian cause.
