South Africa has officially declared that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and urged the international community to act. The government described Israeli operations as systematic violence against Palestinians and called for immediate global intervention.
The statement reflects South Africa’s historical opposition to apartheid and its solidarity with Palestine. Officials drew parallels between Israel’s actions and South Africa’s own past under apartheid rule.
Palestinian leaders welcomed the declaration, viewing it as vital diplomatic support from a major African Union member. Israel, however, dismissed the accusations as false, arguing its military targets armed groups, not civilians.
The genocide claim carries potential legal weight under international law and could influence proceedings at the International Criminal Court. Legal experts remain divided over whether Israeli actions meet genocide criteria, which require proof of intent to destroy a group systematically.
South Africa’s move adds pressure on Israel as humanitarian concerns mount in Gaza, where civilian casualties and widespread destruction continue to draw global scrutiny.
