London, United Kingdom – Israel has accused South Africa of distorting the truth in its case against Israel for genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In response, Israeli lawyer Tal Becker criticized South Africa’s presentation of “a sweeping counter-factual description” of the Israel-Palestinian conflict. South Africa has accused Israel of committing genocide against the Palestinians in its war in Gaza and is urging the court to halt Israel’s military activity.
The ICJ, as the United Nations’ highest court, has the power to issue legally binding rulings on parties involved, including Israel and South Africa. However, these rulings are not enforceable. Israel presented its defense to the court one day after South Africa presented its case.
Outside the ICJ, police implemented cordons to maintain distance between rival groups. On one side, Palestinian flags were waved under a big screen broadcasting a live feed from the courtroom. Banners depicting Nelson Mandela drew parallels between the situation in Gaza and the apartheid era in South Africa. A symbolic Sabbath table was set up a few hundred meters away, with photographs attached to empty chairs representing the more than 130 Israelis being held hostage by Hamas.
South Africa claims Israel is in violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both countries have signed. Israel has been engaged in a conflict with Hamas since October 7, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,300 people and the capture of 240 others. South Africa alleges that Israel’s actions are intended to bring about the destruction of a significant part of the Palestinian group, and it seeks an order from the ICJ to stop Israel’s military operation.
Germany has rejected the accusation of genocide against Israel, emphasizing its commitment to the Convention against Genocide due to its history and the Holocaust. The UK government also supports Israel’s right to defend itself within the framework of international law.
The ICJ’s ruling on the genocide allegation will be an opinion, while a final ruling could take years. However, the court could make a quicker decision on South Africa’s request to suspend Israel’s military campaign.