South Africa condemned Israel’s decision to block aid deliveries into Gaza, accusing the country of using starvation as a weapon of war. Since Sunday, Israel has restricted humanitarian assistance to Gaza, demanding Hamas accept terms for extending a fragile ceasefire.
The South African government stated that the move amounted to a continuation of Israel’s alleged use of starvation as part of an ongoing campaign, which it argues could be classified as genocide, a case currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
In its statement, South Africa described the dire situation in Gaza, stressing that the region urgently needs food, shelter, and medical supplies. The country called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
The ceasefire, which had allowed aid into Gaza since January, is now in jeopardy, with Israel reportedly aiming for a truce extension until mid-April. However, Hamas is calling for a shift to the second phase of the deal, which would lead to a permanent cessation of hostilities.
South Africa’s legal case, brought before the ICJ in December 2023, accuses Israel of violating the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a claim Israel has strongly denied. Other nations, including Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, and Turkey, have supported South Africa’s stance.
