South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to take action against prominent figures in Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in connection with the bombing of Gaza, resulting in the deaths of numerous civilians, including women and children.
During a parliamentary debate on the Palestine conflict, Minister Pandor stated that the killing of women, children, and the elderly necessitates an immediate ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu and high-ranking officials in Tel Aviv.
This parliamentary discussion occurred a day after the South African government announced its decision to recall diplomatic personnel from Israel.
Minister Pandor emphasized that the ongoing killing of Palestinians has persisted for an extended period without significant international intervention. This has been a recurring issue spanning several decades.
She described the evidence of the conflict’s devastation as horrifying, with over 10,000 people losing their lives and thousands sustaining injuries in the past month. The bombing of the Gaza Strip has resulted in the destruction of hospitals, clinics, schools, and other public infrastructure.
Minister Pandor stressed South Africa’s unwavering support for an immediate, comprehensive ceasefire and the establishment of humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of essential aid and services to those in need.
She also asserted that Israel’s actions are in violation of international law, the UN Charter, and the Geneva Conventions due to its targeting of civilians. Minister Pandor expressed her belief that the ICC should have acted promptly in response to the killing of women and children.
In conclusion, she stated, “The murder of children, women, and the elderly by Israel should have led the International Criminal Court to issue an immediate arrest warrant for key decision-makers, including Mr. Netanyahu, who is responsible for violations of international criminal law.”
Minister Pandor also emphasized the importance of a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Palestine and Israel coexisting in peace.
