SA Condemns Disinformation Campaign Over ICJ Genocide Case Against Israel

DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola highlights national funding of ICJ case and denounces misinformation surrounding South Africa's legal stance on alleged genocide in Gaza.

The South African government has expressed strong condemnation of what it calls a "misinformation campaign" concerning its legal proceedings against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, emphasized at a recent media briefing that these disinformation tactics are intended to divert public attention from the severe humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians in Gaza.

“These lamentable efforts are part of a larger campaign to shield Israel from accountability, dehumanize Palestinians, and undermine a just case rooted in international law,” Lamola stated. He underlined that South Africa’s case is fully funded by the national budget and driven by a steadfast commitment to uphold international human rights.

South Africa's ICJ Case on Gaza Genocide

On October 28, 2024, South Africa submitted a formal Memorial to the ICJ, detailing what it described as “genocidal acts” by Israel against Palestinians. The Memorial accuses Israel of extensive human rights abuses, including targeted killings, the obstruction of humanitarian aid, and deliberate actions that threaten Palestinian survival in Gaza. South Africa asserts that such actions constitute a clear intent to commit genocide under the terms of the Genocide Convention, citing Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war and forced displacement tactics.

“The evidence demonstrates unequivocally that underlying Israel’s actions is a specific intent to commit genocide. This includes failure to prevent and punish those responsible for acts of genocide, which are obligations enshrined in international law,” said Lamola. He explained that Article IX of the Genocide Convention grants South Africa, as a Contracting Party, the right to bring such a case before the ICJ when there is evidence that another state is not fulfilling its duties under the convention.

South Africa's Enduring Support for Palestinian Rights

Minister Lamola emphasized that South Africa’s position is shaped by its own history of colonialism and apartheid, alongside its adherence to the United Nations Charter. He noted that South Africa has a long track record of advocating for Palestinian rights at multilateral forums and has consistently supported UN resolutions that seek justice and self-determination for Palestinians.

Since 1994, South Africa has maintained a consistent voting record in support of Palestinian causes and has been at the forefront of efforts to secure full UN membership for Palestine. “South Africa’s advocacy for Palestine’s rights is not recent; it is deeply rooted in our post-apartheid commitment to justice,” Lamola explained. The Minister reiterated that the country’s dedication to Palestinian solidarity is an enduring feature of South Africa’s international policy.

Next Steps and Broader Implications

The ICJ’s acceptance of South Africa’s Memorial and subsequent proceedings will likely shape regional and global perspectives on the responsibilities of states under the Genocide Convention. South Africa views this case as an essential step towards a peaceful resolution in Gaza, aligned with international standards of human rights and accountability.

Lamola also welcomed an open dialogue with other UN members committed to peace and security in Gaza, and he urged the global community to support Palestine through diplomatic and humanitarian means. He concluded by affirming, “South Africa stands in unyielding solidarity with the Palestinian people, and we call on the international community to uphold the principles of justice and accountability enshrined in the United Nations Charter.”