Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, has welcomed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and three Hamas leaders.
The ICC’s pretrial chamber issued the warrants on Thursday afternoon.
“This step by the ICC is a vindication of South Africa’s position, which has been canvassed extensively before the International Court of Justice. The international community can no longer ignore the glaring evidence of genocide and systemic violations of international law in Gaza.
“No individual, government official, or even a nation-state is considered to be above the rules established by international laws and conventions. The ICC’s action sends a powerful message that accountability is not optional but a cornerstone of a just and equitable global order,” Simelane said.
The department described the issuance as a “critical moment in addressing decades of impunity surrounding serious violations in Palestine”.
“[The] ICC’s findings provide compelling evidence that both Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant intentionally deprived the civilian population of Gaza of essential resources, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies. Their actions, which obstructed humanitarian aid and exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis, constitute serious breaches of international humanitarian law.
“South Africa, alongside other nations, has consistently called for accountability to address the atrocities committed against Palestinians.
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“The Minister emphasised that South Africa’s submissions to the ICJ have strengthened the case that the Israeli state’s actions meet the definition of genocide under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
“This advocacy reflects South Africa’s unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law,” the department said.
It called on the international community to speak out against the suffering of the Palestinian people.
“As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, South Africa reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, and the commencement of a political process to secure a just and lasting peace in the region.
“The international community cannot turn a blind eye to the ongoing suffering of innocent civilians, including women, children, and humanitarian workers.
“South Africa will continue to advocate for justice for the people of Palestine in all international forums, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are heard and their rights protected,” the department said.
