South Africa is now reviewing Israel’s formal submission to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) after months of delays and extensions, raising the prospect of oral proceedings in the high-profile genocide case.
International relations analyst Oscar van Heerden explained that Israel requested two extensions to submit its case, both of which were granted by the court.
“Because of the gravity of the charges, it would have been inconsiderate for the court to deny that. The court generously agreed to both extensions,” he said.
South Africa brought the case before the ICJ in 2023 following escalating attacks in Gaza, which many observers have described as acts of genocide. Van Heerden noted that the court’s preliminary ruling found a plausible case for genocide, prompting it to order Israel to allow basic humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.
“Even now, Israel has only allowed the bare minimum of food and continues to control water and electricity supplies,” he said.
The analyst also highlighted concerns over the timing and targeting of attacks, particularly during Ramadan.
“It is deliberate. Certain refugee camps and civilian infrastructure are bombed at the time of iftar, which shows a disregard for civilian life,” he said.
Van Heerden warned that South Africa may face external pressure, including from the United States.
“Leo Brent Bozell III came with a patronising agenda, threatening South Africa’s interests if we did not comply. This is typical of colonial and racist behaviour, but the government has already issued a clear warning,” he said.
The ICJ case now hinges on whether South Africa will submit additional written arguments before moving to oral proceedings, marking a critical stage in the dispute.
Photo: Sourced
