South Africa Accuses Israel of Impunity, Genocide at ICJ Hearings

South Africa presented its case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of acting with impunity in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories by violating international law and blocking life-saving humanitarian aid. South African officials, referencing their own historical experience with apartheid, argued that Israel’s actions—including military operations, settlement expansion, and restrictions on movement—constitute atrocity crimes, persecution, apartheid, and genocide. The South African delegation criticized the international community's lack of accountability for Israel and highlighted the suffering of Palestinian civilians, particularly due to destroyed homes, limited access to essentials, and ongoing violence. They also condemned recent attacks on the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), linking them to broader efforts to deny Palestinian rights and perpetuate what they described as apartheid. South Africa called for an immediate halt to Israeli settlement activities, unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza, and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution, urging the ICJ and international community to enforce measures that uphold Palestinian sovereignty and human rights. The hearings are expected to continue with input from over 40 countries, as the court considers whether Israel has failed its obligations as an occupying power.