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South Africa has formally accused Israel of violating a recent directive from the United Nations’ International Court of Justice (ICJ), which mandated increased protective measures for civilians in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas. This criticism follows the ICJ’s findings, suggesting the possibility of Israel committing genocide, given the rising death toll in Gaza, now exceeding 26,700 individuals.

The ICJ’s ruling, while stopping short of demanding a ceasefire, tasked the Israeli government with outlining a civilian protection strategy within a month. Despite this, Israeli operations have persisted, with reports of 150 fatalities in Gaza. Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said, “The ICJ’s ruling makes it clear that it is plausible that genocide is taking place against the Palestinian people in Gaza. This necessarily imposes an obligation on all states to cease funding and facilitating Israel’s military actions.”

Pandor expressed dismay at the ongoing violence and the international community’s response, adding, “I can’t be dishonest. I believe the rulings of the court have been ignored. Hundreds of people have been killed in the last three or four days. And clearly Israel believes it has license to do as it wishes.”

Despite the court’s directive, Israeli forces have continued their operations in Gaza, with reports from the Health Ministry indicating that 150 people were killed in the last 24 hours, a figure that includes a significant number of women and children. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the actions in Gaza are defensive, stating, “will continue to do what is necessary to defend our country and defend our people.”