SA cheers ICJ decision safeguarding civilians in Rafah

Gaza

Cape Town – South Africa has expressed support for an injunction by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to protect civilians in Rafah, Gaza.

This follows an urgent appeal by the South African government to the ICJ, seeking an assessment of Israel’s recent announcement to increase its military presence in Rafah, the remaining sanctuary for the people surviving in Gaza.

“The court affirms our view that the perilous situation demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures indicated by the Court in its Order of 26 January 2024, which are applicable throughout the Gaza Strip, and has clarified that this includes Rafah,” the Presidency said on Friday.

Last month, the highest court of the United Nations (UN) issued an order to Israel, directing it to employ all available measures to “prevent and penalise direct and public incitement to commit genocide.”

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Additionally, Israel was instructed to promptly guarantee Palestinians’ access to fundamental services and humanitarian aid.

According to the Presidency, the court acknowledged that Israel’s intended military actions in Rafah would intensify the existing humanitarian crisis.
The court also recognised the necessity for adherence to the current provisional measures, emphasizing that compliance with these measures mandates the protection of civilians in both Gaza and Rafah.

“The court decision has noted the ‘that the most recent developments in the Gaza Strip, and in Rafah in particular,’ would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences”, as stated by the United Nations Secretary-General (Remarks to the General Assembly on priorities for 2024 (7 February 2024).

“The court has unequivocally explained that compliance with the existing provisional measures requires Israel to ensure the safety and security of all Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

“Any decision by Israel to engage in military activities against Palestinians in the current circumstances is a violation of the order of the International Court of Justice,” the Presidency said.

South Africa intends to use channels like the UN Security Council for the full implementation of provisional measures.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

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