South Africa: ICJ genocide case will continue despite Gaza ceasefire

PRETORIA, Oct. 16 (YPA) – South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said that the Gaza ceasefire would not cancel the crimes committed against civilians, stressing that the lawsuit filed against “Israel” at the International Court of Justice aims to prevent the recurrence of violations, not merely to suspend them temporarily.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the DIRCO said, that “the judicial process reflects South Africa’s longstanding commitment to oppose apartheid and defend the rights of oppressed peoples,” referring to ongoing legal actions against Israel, accused of committing genocide in Gaza.

The South African government reaffirmed its commitment to proceed with the case, despite the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between the Israeli occupation and Palestinian factions.

It emphasized that international justice is not tied to immediate on-the-ground developments but depends on holding those responsible for serious crimes accountable.

South Africa filed the case in December 2023, accusing Israel of committing genocidal acts in Gaza. Israel’s response to South Africa’s 500-page submission is due by January 12, 2026, with oral hearings expected in 2027.

The ICJ has issued provisional measures ordering “Israel” to prevent genocidal acts and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

@E.Y.M