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Israel has urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, to dismiss an urgent request from South Africa questioning the legality of Israel's military operations in Rafah, Gaza, arguing that it violates provisional orders issued by the court last month.
South Africa has called upon the ICJ to assess whether Israel's airstrikes on Rafah, along with its alleged plans for a ground offensive in the densely populated city, contravene the U.N. Genocide Convention and the interim measures issued by the court in a case accusing Israel of genocide.
In a three-page submission made public on Thursday, Israel criticized South Africa's latest request as "highly peculiar and improper," rejecting the allegations and asserting its right to defend its actions.
The legal dispute underscores the ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has garnered international attention and raised profound humanitarian concerns.
The request from South Africa to the ICJ reflects growing international scrutiny and condemnation of Israel's military operations in Gaza, particularly amid allegations of human rights violations and potential breaches of international law.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the ICJ faces the complex task of adjudicating the dispute while navigating the intricacies of international law and diplomacy.
The outcome of the case holds significant implications for the ongoing conflict in the region and may shape future efforts to address accountability, justice, and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Against the backdrop of escalating violence and diplomatic tensions, the legal proceedings at the ICJ underscore the critical role of international institutions in addressing conflicts and upholding the principles of justice and human rights on a global scale.
