The South African government has accused Israel of “a worse form of apartheid” than before at home. She referred to the occupation of Palestinian territories. This week the hearings on the consequences of the occupation since 1967 will take place at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.
In December 2022, the UN General Assembly had already requested an “advice” from the International Court of Justice. This is intended to shed light on the “legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem.” However, the report is not binding. Representatives of the US, Russia and China, among others, will have their say during this week’s hearings. A total of 52 states are expected to make statements.
Written declaration by Israel
No one from Israel attended the hearing in the Netherlands, but a written statement was submitted. It describes the questions to the court as “biased” and “tendentious”. The proceedings, which started Monday, aim to “harm Israel’s right to defend itself against existential threats,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said. In any case, the conflict must be resolved through negotiations.
Various applications submitted
The accusation of apartheid was made for the second time in the proceedings. On Monday, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Al-Malik spoke about “colonialism and apartheid” (see video above).
Last December, the South African government also accused Israel of “genocide” before the International Court of Justice. The court then ordered Israel to protect Palestinian civilians during its military operations and to provide humanitarian aid. A renewed request by South Africa against Israel over the upcoming military offensive in Rafah was rejected.
A decision of the International Court of Justice would not be binding; it could only increase the pressure on Israel.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
