The South African legal team submitted a nearly 5,000-page document to the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The document, not yet made public, alleges that Israel has a 'special intent to commit genocide.' Israel has vehemently denied these accusations, labeling them as 'blood libel'.
The ICJ confirmed receiving the document, as the Israeli military continues its offensive in northern Gaza, urging Palestinians to evacuate. The U.N. reports that over 400,000 people remain in northern Gaza, facing severe hunger due to dwindling humanitarian aid.
Amidst this, the ICJ has issued three rounds of emergency measures, directing Israel to cease military actions in Rafah and increase aid access to Gaza. South Africa claims Israel has failed to comply, endangering global governance institutions.
Several countries, including Palestine, Spain, and Chile, have requested to join the case. Israel has until July 2025 to respond to the allegations. The military action by Israel in Gaza was initiated following an attack by Hamas-led militants in October 2023, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians, with 250 others abducted.
