US, South Africa Discuss Gaza Conflict Ahead of Ruling on Genocide Measures, Reuters Reports

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a conversation on Thursday with South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This discussion came just a day before a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on urgent measures concerning allegations of genocide against Israel.

Significance of the Ruling

The ICJ is set to decide on South Africa’s request for emergency measures against Israel, which faces accusations of state-sponsored genocide due to its military actions in Gaza. This ruling will not address the central accusation of genocide but will focus on the immediate interventions requested by South Africa.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

During their call, Blinken reiterated U.S. support for Israel’s right to defend itself, particularly in light of the terrorist attacks that occurred on October 7. According to a statement from the U.S. State Department, Blinken and Pandor also emphasized the importance of protecting civilian lives in Gaza and the need for regional stability, which includes advancing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The two officials also reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between the U.S. and South Africa.

Background Context

South Africa has called for an urgent cessation of Israel’s military operations, which have devastated much of Gaza and resulted in the deaths of over 25,000 individuals, representing more than 1% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, as reported by local health authorities.

Israel has dismissed the accusations from South Africa, asserting its right to defend itself following the October 7 assault by Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group that controls Gaza. Israeli officials reported that the initial attack resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and resulted in 240 hostages being taken.

As part of its legal action, South Africa has proposed nine emergency measures, akin to a restraining order, while the court considers the case in detail. However, the court is not obliged to accept South Africa’s requests and could impose its own measures if it determines that it has jurisdiction at this stage.