Focus

South Africa files lawsuit against Israel at ICJ over Gaza, Malaysia backs legal move

ADLIN SAHIMI
By ADLIN SAHIMI
05 Jan 2024 05:41pm
Thousands of people protest as part of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov 29, 2023. - EPA PIX
Thousands of people protest as part of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov 29, 2023. - EPA PIX

SHAH ALAM – Recently, South Africa grabbed international attention by launching a lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The lawsuit accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.

Submitted on Dec 29, the comprehensive 84-page document outlined alleged severe misconduct in Gaza.

It called on the ICJ, the United Nations' body for resolving disputes between states, to immediately acknowledge Israel's violation of international law starting from Oct 7.

The cornerstone of South Africa's claim was the definition of genocide under the 1948 Genocide Convention.

The allegations included widespread killings of Palestinian civilians, particularly children, demolition of residential areas, forced displacement of inhabitants and the imposition of a blockade restricting essential resources in Gaza.

The main contention was that these acts were aimed at the systematic eradication of the Palestinian community.

Moreover, the legal action slammed Israel for not hindering the provocation to genocide, highlighting comments from Israeli leaders that seemed to justify the violence and devastation in Gaza.

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In a climate rife with misinformation, South Africa's initiative served to spotlight alleged large-scale human rights abuses and underline the repercussions of flouting international standards.

The forthcoming hearings at the ICJ in January were anticipated to have a profound effect on global viewpoints, especially concerning the United States' endorsement of Israel.

In solidarity, Malaysia has expressed support for South Africa's legal proceedings against Israel in the ICJ concerning the alleged transgressions in Gaza under the Genocide Convention.

Malaysia is calling on Israel to adhere to international laws, halt its aggressive actions against Palestinians and support the establishment of an independent Palestinian nation.

Recent reports highlight the significant number of casualties resulting from Israeli strikes on Gaza.

Israel
Gaza
Malaysia
South Africa
United Nations
Palestine
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