On Thursday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued new provisional measures against Israel in response to a second request from South Africa regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza Strip. The court has instructed Israel to take immediate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of 2.3 million Palestinians living in Gaza, including over one million children.
South Africa’s brief asked the ICJ for new precautionary measures or modifications of previous ones to address ongoing violations by Israel in Gaza. The court has emphasized that Israel must comply with all previously issued measures and take immediate action to ensure unhindered access to humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza.
The ICJ has also called on Israel to ensure that its military forces do not commit any actions that could harm Palestinians living in Gaza, particularly those that hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid. This includes actions such as targeting hospitals, schools, and other civilian infrastructure. Additionally, Israel is required to submit a report within one month on compliance with these additional measures.
South Africa’s government has welcomed this decision and emphasized its significance in holding Israel accountable for their violations of international law and human rights abuses against Palestinians living in Gaza Strip. They have also highlighted the urgent need for immediate action by both Israel and international community to address this crisis and prevent further suffering of innocent people living in Gaza Strip.
It is important to note that South Africa filed a complaint against Israel with the ICJ alleging genocide in Gaza Strip last December, which was a response to a bloody military offensive that resulted in over 32,500 deaths. This decision and subsequent implementation of provisional measures are seen as crucial steps towards addressing this crisis and holding Israel accountable for their actions.