ICJ ruling on Gaza 'decisive victory for int'l rule of law': S. Africa
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South Africa's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson calls the ICJ decision "a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people."
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Pro-Palestine activists wave flags during a session of the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands, on January 26, 2024. (AP)
South Africa hailed temporary measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the genocide lawsuit against "Israel" at the Hague on Friday, describing them as a "decisive victory" for the international legal system.
The United Nations' highest court asserted its jurisdiction to act on the emergency measures sought by South Africa in its lawsuit against "Israel's" actions in the Gaza war.
As the reading proceeded, the court recognized the right of Palestinians in Gaza to be protected from acts of genocide, adding that the Palestinians are a protected group under the Genocide Convention.
The Court ordered "Israel" to take all measures to prevent genocide acts in Gaza, ensure its forces do not commit genocide, and take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.
"Israel" is required to submit a report to the court within a month, detailing its actions to comply with the order. Furthermore, it must implement measures to prevent and punish direct incitement of genocide in the context of its war on Gaza.
South Africa's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Clayson Monyela called it "a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people."
Monyela added that the country is thankful to the Court for the "implementation of the international rule of law, the decision is a momentous one," adding that the UNSC would be notified of the court's order.
He also warned that the veto power enjoyed by permanent members of the council must not be used to undermine international justice
"South Africa sincerely hopes that 'Israel' will not act to frustrate the application of this Order, as it has publicly threatened to do, but that it will instead act to comply with it fully, as it is bound to do."
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to provide a message to the country after the International Court of Justice's order.
