Saturday January 27, 2024
South Africa has welcomed the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) relating to its case against Israel calling it a "decisive victory".
The UN's top court has just ordered Israel to take a string of emergency measures in Gaza, but stopped short of demanding a ceasefire.
Under the measures Israel has been told to do all in its power to stop genocide there, immediately enable more urgently needed aid to enter the territory and to prevent and punish the direct incitement of genocide in the conflict.
South Africa accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians
Israel vehemently denies the accusation and is thought likely to ignore orders by the judges, who have no way of enforcing their decision.
Reacting to the ICJ judgement, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will "continue to defend ourselves and our citizens while adhering to international law".
Mr Netanyahu added that Israel will "continue this war until absolute victory" and until "all hostages are returned".
It could take years before the ICJ gives a final judgement on the claim of genocide.