The prominent Israeli daily newspaper Haaretz has reported that Israeli officials fear the International Court of Justice could charge Israel with genocide in Gaza.
The article discusses concerns within the Israeli security establishment and the State Attorney’s Office regarding the possibility of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague charging Israel with genocide in the Gaza Strip. South Africa has petitioned the court, alleging that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and not taking action against those inciting to genocide.
A senior legal expert has warned the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) about the potential issuance of an injunction by the ICJ, calling for Israel to cease its fire. Israel, being a signatory to the treaty against genocide, recognizes the court’s jurisdiction. The article notes that if the ICJ recognizes South Africa’s claims, it may lead to diplomatic isolation, boycotts, or sanctions against Israel.
Israel rejects South Africa’s accusations, terming them a “blood libel” without legal merit. The Foreign Ministry accuses South Africa of collaborating with a terrorist group, blaming Hamas for the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. The article also includes perspectives from international law experts, emphasizing the seriousness of South Africa’s claims and the potential impact on Israel’s international standing.
It concludes by highlighting that the ICJ’s influence in shaping international law and its potential ruling on the Gaza situation could have significant consequences for Israel. The court’s past cases involving accusations of genocide are briefly mentioned to provide context to the current situation. The experts interviewed stress the need for a serious response from Israel in the face of these allegations.
You can read the full article by Haaretz here. Please note that you may be required to subscribe to the newspaper to read the full article.
