The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has dismissed South Africa’s request for urgent measures against Israel in the Gazan city of Rafah. The court ruled that Israel must comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention and previous orders from the court.
South Africa had lodged the urgent request with the ICJ to address Israel’s military operations targeting Rafah. However, Israel urged the court to reject the request, describing it as “highly peculiar and improper.”
The case between South Africa and Israel at the ICJ comes at a time of strained relations between the two countries, with South Africa accusing Israel of apartheid against Palestinian Arabs. In protest, South Africa had recalled its ambassador and entire diplomatic mission from Israel.
Furthermore, South Africa’s lawmakers recently voted in favor of closing the Israeli embassy and cutting diplomatic ties until a ceasefire is agreed upon. In 2019, South Africa had also announced plans to downgrade its embassy in Tel Aviv.
While the ICJ has not yet ruled on the core of South Africa’s case against Israel, this recent decision regarding urgent measures in Rafah highlights the ongoing tensions and legal battles between the two nations. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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