Israel presented its defense at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday in response to a request by South Africa to halt its operations in Rafah and withdraw from Palestinian territory. The Israeli Justice Ministry official, Gilad Noam, characterized South Africa’s accusation of violating the Genocide Convention as lacking in factual basis.
Noam criticized South Africa’s case, stating that it “makes a mockery of the heinous charge of genocide” and referred to it as “an obscene exploitation of the most sacred convention.” He emphasized the importance of preventing genocide but argued that the situation in Gaza does not meet the criteria.
The ICJ, which adjudicates disputes between states, has granted South Africa the right to present its case. However, Israel has contested the allegations and called for the dismissal of the case. In previous rulings, the court has ordered Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians but stopped short of halting military operations.
During Israel’s presentation, a protester disrupted the proceedings, underscoring the contentious nature of the issue. Noam reiterated Israel’s position that its military actions in Gaza target Hamas terrorists, not civilians.
South Africa’s legal team framed the Israeli military operation as part of a genocidal plan aimed at destroying the Palestinian people. Ambassador Vusimuzi Madonsela urged the court to order Israel to withdraw its troops from Gaza immediately.
The ongoing hearings focus on issuing emergency measures, with a decision expected in the coming week.
