South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Wednesday that his country has reported Israel’s government to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its actions during the Gaza conflict.
“As South Africa we have accordingly, together with many other countries in the world, saw fit to refer this whole Israeli government action to the International Criminal Court. We have put through a referral because we believe that war crimes are being committed there,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa did not reveal the names of the other countries involved in this referral.
He clarified that while they do not support Hamas’s previous attack on Israel, they strongly oppose Israel’s continuous actions, which they believe should be investigated by the ICC.
Israel claims that its bombing and invasion of Gaza are defensive actions in response to the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th. The attack resulted in the death of over 1,400 people and the hostage-taking of more than 230 individuals
Israel further asserts that Hamas is utilizing civilian structures, including hospitals, to shield their fighters and weapons, thereby making these buildings legitimate targets.
The ICC is a global court that examines and prosecutes individuals who are accused of committing serious crimes that are of concern to the international community, such as war crimes or genocides.
South Africa has been actively advocating for the rights of Palestinians in the ongoing conflict with Israel.
Many leaders in the country have openly expressed their support for the Palestinians, and there have also been demonstrations in favor of Palestine.
