The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) has expressed its strong condemnation of the South African government’s decision to file a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed that it opened a case on Friday, alleging that Israel has violated its obligations under the Genocide Convention by engaging in genocidal acts against the Palestinian people in Gaza.
The Israel-Palestine conflict has been ongoing for nearly 12 weeks since Hamas launched its attack on October 7, 2023.
Israeli officials report that over 1,000 people, mostly civilians, have been killed in the conflict. The Health Ministry in Gaza claims that over 21,000 people have been killed in Israel’s retaliatory attacks.
In a statement released on Sunday, the SAJBD expressed its belief that the conflict should be brought to an end. However, the organization disagrees with the government’s approach and believes that it should be using its influence to facilitate dialogue between the two parties.
The SAJBD stated, “Rather than play a positive role, South Africa has chosen to expend its time and energy in filing a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.”
The SAJBD also expressed deep concern over the government’s inclusion of a meeting held with the SAJBD in December as part of its case against Israel.
The meeting was intended to address rising anti-Semitism in South Africa and the lack of consular services for South African citizens in Israel. Karen Milner, the national chairperson of the SAJBD, clarified that the organization is not the representative of the state of Israel nor a mediator between the two countries.
Milner stated, “That the SA legal case against Israel twisted the meeting in this way shows the depths to which the government will sink in doing the bidding of its friends, Hamas.”
The SAJBD believes that the move to involve the International Court of Justice lacks credibility and demonstrates a lack of interest in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The organization emphasizes the importance of dialogue and negotiation in resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict.
It is essential to acknowledge the complexity and sensitivity of the Israel-Palestine conflict. The SAJBD’s opposition to the government’s decision to file a case against Israel is based on its belief in the power of dialogue and negotiation.
While the SAJBD recognizes the need to address human rights concerns, it argues that the government’s approach does not contribute to finding a peaceful resolution.
As the conflict continues to claim lives and destabilize the region, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize peaceful and diplomatic solutions.
The SAJBD urges the South African government to reconsider its approach and use its influence to foster dialogue and promote a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
