South Africa Strongly Condemns Israel’s Aid Block to Gaza

South Africa condemned Israel’s blockade of food to Gaza, labeling it as a war weapon and part of potential genocide. The nation urged international accountability while discussing the ongoing ceasefire negotiations and Israel’s military actions in the West Bank, which threaten Palestinian statehood.

South Africa has formally condemned Israel for obstructing food supplies to the Gaza Strip, characterizing this action as a weapon of war against the local population. The South African Ministry of International Relations stated, “Preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war,” while also referencing its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding potential genocide.

The Ministry emphasized that the people of Gaza are in dire need of essential resources, including food, shelter, and medical supplies. Furthermore, South Africa urged the global community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Following a ceasefire agreement in January, humanitarian aid was permitted into Gaza until Israel recently announced a halt to deliveries until Hamas agrees to certain conditions.

Discussions surrounding the ceasefire have been contentious, with Israel seeking an extension until mid-April, while Hamas advocates for the transition to a permanent cessation of hostilities. In 2023, South Africa presented a case to the ICJ, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza violate the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, garnering support from several nations, including Bolivia, Chile, and Turkey.

South Africa has additionally condemned Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank, which have intensified following the ceasefire. These operations, described as a significant escalation, threaten the Palestinian pursuit of self-determination and statehood. Israel claims its offensive targets Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters operating in the area, yet this aggression has resulted in widespread displacement of civilians.

In summary, South Africa has unequivocally condemned Israel’s blockade of food to Gaza, asserting it constitutes a weapon of war and potentially genocide. The country has called for international accountability, citing increased military actions by Israel in both Gaza and the West Bank that threaten Palestinian rights and statehood aspirations. The situation remains tense, as ceasefire negotiations continue amidst humanitarian crises.

Original Source: en.mehrnews.com