South Africa Accuses Israel of Starvation Tactics in Gaza Conflict
South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking aid to Gaza, labeling it as starvation used as a war tactic. The government called for international accountability and highlighted the humanitarian crisis faced by Gazans. It also denounced Israel’s military actions in the West Bank as a dangerous escalation affecting Palestinian statehood efforts.
On Wednesday, South Africa condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, characterizing it as the use of starvation as a weapon of war. This action follows a fragile ceasefire that allowed for a temporary influx of aid. The Israeli government announced on Sunday that aid deliveries would be halted until Hamas accepted certain terms related to the ceasefire extension.
The South African foreign ministry stated, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the ICJ ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.” The ministry further emphasized, “The people of Gaza are experiencing immeasurable suffering and urgently need food, shelter and medical supplies,” urging the international community to hold Israel accountable.
While Israel expressed a desire to extend the ceasefire until mid-April, Hamas has called for a transition toward a permanent peace agreement. South Africa previously submitted a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention—a claim Israel has vehemently denied. Several nations, including Spain and Turkey, have supported the proceedings; however, the ICJ lacks enforcement mechanisms for its rulings.
Additionally, South Africa condemned Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, which have surged in Jenin city, resulting in casualties. Notably, at least three individuals reportedly died from these operations, a figure contested by Palestinian officials. South Africa described this military escalation as “a dangerous escalation, and which further threatens the Palestinian quest for self-determination and statehood,” signaling the serious implications of Israel’s increased military presence in the region.
In summary, South Africa is vocally criticizing Israel’s actions in both Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting human rights violations and potential genocide accusations. The nation is calling for accountability from the international community while emphasizing the dire humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people. The situation remains tense as both parties navigate the complexities of ceasefire negotiations and military offensives.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
