Many days later Israeli military incursion into RafahIn southern Gaza, South Africa again asked the United Nations high court to impose restrictions on Israel, saying the “survival” of Palestinians in Gaza is at stake.
In filings revealed by the International Court of Justice in The Hague on Friday, South Africa asked the court to order Israel to immediately withdraw its troops from Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, home to more than a million people. Palestine displaced by the war sought refuge and “ceased its military offensive” and allowed “unimpeded access” to international officials, investigators and journalists.
South Africa’s latest move is part of a case the country filed in December in which they accused Israel of genocide. Since then, the court ordered Israel acted to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and ordered the provision of more humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the face of increasing famine in the areas. But the court has not ordered Israel to stop its military campaign against Hamas.
Israel has strongly denied South Africa’s accusations and said it had gone to great lengths to acknowledge the shipment of food and fuel into Gaza and reduce civilian casualties. They also say the war in Gaza was necessary to defend themselves against the October 7 attacks led by Hamas and other armed groups that killed more than 1,200 Israelis and led to the arrest of about 250 others. .
Friday’s request is the fourth time South Africa has asked the United Nations court to issue a temporary restraining order. The profile notes that conditions have worsened significantly for civilians sheltering in Gaza.
“Rafah is the last population center in Gaza that has not been significantly destroyed by Israel and is the last refuge for Palestinians in Gaza,” South Africa stated.
The court has not said when it will respond to South Africa’s request, but its rules require it to prioritize applications for urgent orders. The court of 15 judges had no means to enforce its orders.
The main genocide case is not expected to begin until next year.
