Times of Israel: Israel rejects genocide claims at ICJ, pans South Africa’s ‘grossly distorted’ charges
Attorneys argue ministers’ problematic comments cited by South Africa not impacting war, highlight Hamas’s use of civilians and IDF efforts to protect innocents
THE HAGUE — Israel’s legal team launched its response Friday morning to accusations brought by South Africa at the UN’s top court that its war against Hamas in Gaza, in response to Hamas’s October 7 terror onslaught, was a state-led genocidal campaign aimed at wiping out the Palestinian population.
The legal adviser for Israel’s Foreign Ministry said at the opening of the second day of hearings that South Africa on Thursday brought “a grossly distorted story,” with “curated” allegations.
“If there were acts of genocide, they have been perpetrated against Israel,” Becker said, condemning South Africa’s assertion that Israel does not have the right to self-defense against Hamas.
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WNU Editor: What struck me about yesterday's testimony from the South African representative was his remark that all countries have a right to defend themselves, but it does not give a country the right to retaliate in a manner that runs contrary to numerous UN charters and treaties. Israel, in today's testimony, says it is abiding by those rules and laws.
As to what is my take after listening to both sides.
Israel's blockade of food, water, and medical supplies to the Gaza population is a war crime, but is an act of genocide? I am still digesting what I have heard and seen in this courtroom for the past two days, but I think it is too early to say that Israel is committing genocide. But Israel, if it continues the war and destroys southern Gaza, will definitely be crossing the line on what is a genocide.
As to how will the UN court rule?
My gut tells me that when these UN judges look at the numerous videos that document the massive destruction of Gaza coupled with numerous public remarks from Israeli ministers and government officials on how they view the Palestinians, I for one will not be surprised if the UN court issues a ruling accusing Israel of committing genocide.
Israel Denies Accusations Of Genocide At Top UN Court
Live updates: In Day 2 of hearings, Israel rejects South Africa’s allegation of genocide -- AP
Israel rejects genocide charges, tells World Court it must defend itself -- Reuters
ICJ updates: Israel’s response to South Africa’s genocide case -- Al Jazeera
Israel says South Africa distorting the truth in ICJ genocide case -- BBC
Israel defends itself at the UN’s top court against allegations of genocide in Gaza -- AP
Israel denies genocide accusations at top UN court, says war in Gaza is self-defense -- CNN
Israel accuses South Africa of ‘profound distortion’ at ICJ genocide hearing -- The Guardian
Israel rejects claims of genocide levelled in United Nation's top court -- ABC News Australia
Israel rejects accusations of genocide in Gaza war at ICJ hearing -- Al Jazeera
South Africa's genocide case against Israel: Can it win? -- DW