Egypt supports South Africa’s ICJ case against Israel as more people flee Gaza

Egypt to Support South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel at ICJ

In a bold move, Egypt has announced its intention to intervene in support of South Africa’s genocide case against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Egyptian foreign affairs ministry released a statement on Sunday, calling on Israel to comply with its obligations as the occupying power and implement the provisional measures issued by the ICJ.

The statement emphasized the worsening severity and scope of Israeli attacks against Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip. Egypt condemned the systematic practices against the Palestinian people, including the direct targeting of civilians, destruction of infrastructure, and the forced displacement of Palestinians. The ministry urged the UN Security Council and international parties to take immediate action to halt violations in Gaza and military operations in Rafah.

Despite their historical alliance since the 1970s, Egypt has become increasingly critical of Israel’s assault in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 35,000 people. The Egyptian government is particularly concerned about the potential influx of Palestinian refugees into the Sinai Peninsula and the possibility of them being denied the right to return.

The Israeli military has issued orders for Palestinians to evacuate northern parts of Gaza, such as Jabalia and Beit Lahiya, as well as central areas of Rafah in the south. Approximately 300,000 Palestinians have fled Rafah following these orders, relocating to the overcrowded and underserved “humanitarian zone” of al-Mawasi.

In response to the escalating situation, South Africa has called on the ICJ to impose additional emergency measures against Israel for its military offensive in Rafah. South Africa’s submission to the ICJ includes demands for Israel to withdraw its forces from Rafah, allow unimpeded access to humanitarian aid, and permit the entry of international bodies, investigators, and journalists to gather evidence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has remained steadfast in his plans to invade Rafah to uproot Hamas, following an attack in Israel on October 7 that resulted in numerous casualties and captives being taken to Gaza.

The developments in the region have raised international concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for immediate action to protect Palestinian civilians. Egypt’s decision to support South Africa’s case at the ICJ adds a new dimension to the ongoing conflict and underscores the urgency of addressing the situation in Gaza. The world will be watching closely as these legal and diplomatic efforts unfold in the coming days.