South Africa Accuses Israel of Weaponizing Starvation in Gaza

South Africa has condemned Israel for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza, accusing it of weaponizing starvation and potentially committing genocide. The ceasefire is threatened, and South Africa’s legal accusations against Israel are supported by several countries, all amid urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza.

South Africa has publicly condemned Israel for blocking aid deliveries to Gaza, accusing it of weaponizing starvation as a strategy in the ongoing conflict. Since Sunday, Israel has imposed restrictions on humanitarian assistance, insisting that Hamas agrees to certain conditions for extending a fragile ceasefire.

The South African government asserts that Israel’s actions constitute a continuation of its alleged campaign of starvation, which it characterizes as potentially genocidal. This matter is currently under consideration by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

In its official statement, South Africa highlighted the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, emphasizing the critical demand for food, shelter, and medical supplies. The government urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the region.

The ceasefire, which has facilitated some aid deliveries to Gaza since January, is now under threat. Israel reportedly aims to extend the truce until mid-April, while Hamas is advocating for the next phase of negotiations that would result in a permanent end to hostilities.

Additionally, South Africa’s legal action, submitted to the ICJ in December 2023, alleges that Israel has violated the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention—a claim that Israel has vehemently disputed. Nations such as Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, and Turkey have expressed their support for South Africa’s position.

In summary, South Africa has taken a firm stance against Israel’s restrictions on aid to Gaza, framing it as an act of starvation in warfare. This situation is increasingly viewed through the lens of potential genocide, warranting international scrutiny. The ongoing ceasefire is at risk, as negotiations between Hamas and Israel continue, while South Africa’s legal case against Israel highlights broader international concerns regarding humanitarian rights in conflict zones.

Original Source: newscentral.africa