SA's Justice Minister says Netanyahu's arrest warrant victory for Palestinian rights
On Thursday, the ICC issued warrants for Netanyahu and Yoav Galant, who was fired earlier this month as well as Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif.
FILE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference in the Kirya military base in Tel Aviv on 28 October 2023 amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. Picture: AFP
JOHANNESBURG - Justice Minister Thembi Simelane says the International Criminal Court (ICC)'s arrest warrants for Israel's Prime Minister and former Defence Minister are a significant affirmation of South Africa's longstanding advocacy for Palestinian rights.
On Thursday, the ICC issued warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Galant, who was fired earlier this month as well as Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif.
In a statement, the ICC said the warrants are for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October last year until at least 20 May this year.
Despite the ICC's order for a ceasefire, Israel has continued its military offensive in Gaza since Hamas' October 7th attack.
READ: World leaders split as ICC issues arrest warrant for Netanyahu
The warrant theoretically means that the court's 124 national members would be obliged to arrest Netanyahu if he steps on their territory.
"The ICC's warrants mark a critical moment in addressing decades of impunity surrounding serious violations in Palestine. The minister noted that the ICC's findings provide compelling evidence that both Mr Netanyahu and Mr Galant 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," said Justice Ministry spokesperson Tsekiso Machike.
Israel's challenge to the jurisdiction of the court was rejected on Thursday.
Italy and the Netherlands have openly said they will comply.
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A lawyer representing the victims of the Hamas attack said the court's decision must be respected.
Yael Vias Gvirsman was speaking at the Hague shortly after the ICC made the announcement, saying the Palestinian victims she represented were relieved.
"There is a sign of hope," she added.
Meanwhile, Palestinian ambassador Ammar Hijazi said the state of Palestine welcomes the ICC’s decision.
"We believe that it is proof that the long arm of justice reaches anyone who violates the norms that humanity decided cannot be violated, especially the most egregious atrocities like war crimes and crimes against humanity," said Hijazi.