(PatriotPostNews.com) – The United Nation’s top judicial court has begun hearing arguments from representatives of South Africa, which has expressed concern that Israel is launching a genocidal campaign against Palestine.
On January 11, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of the United Nations (UN) started hearing South Africa’s case against Israel as the war in the Middle East continues. Beginning on October 7, when the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas launched a surprise attack in Israeli towns, an armed conflict near the border has persisted.
Israel has issued consistent air strikes into the Gaza Strip, killing thousands of innocent citizens in the process. South Africa is arguing that the Israeli response has crossed the line of self-defense, bringing it to the attention of the international court.
South Africa presented three hours of arguments to the ICJ on January 11, with Israel responding to the accusations the next day. Lawyers representing South Africa argued that Israel is responsible for implementing an “institutionalized regime of discriminatory laws” which leaders have used to “establish domination.”
They argued that this described “impunity” has gone on for “decades,” resulting in ongoing and increasing “humanitarian crimes in Palestine.” Attorneys cited the “broader context” of the 25-year apartheid, 16-year siege and 56-year occupation within the Gaza Strip.
Following the initial attacks, roughly 1,200 Israeli innocents were killed alongside almost 250 hostages. Consequently, Israel’s counter attacks have resulted in the deaths of more than 23,000 Palestinians living in Gaza. Additionally, an estimated 1.9 million citizens have had to evacuate the area, according to data from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
The ongoing court case could last years, despite only two days of hearing arguments. However, more immediate action could be ordered in the coming weeks. South Africa is requesting swift action against Israel, initiated by the UN court.
In response to the case, Israeli representatives have belittled the allegations against them, calling them “baseless” and likening them to “absurd blood libel.” Israel maintains that its military actions are strictly measures of defense against Hamas.
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