Last Friday, Gilad Noam from Israel’s Justice Ministry talked at the International Court of Justice about South Africa’s request for a ceasefire in Rafah. He said South Africa’s claim that Israel broke the Genocide Convention wasn’t true.
He stated that Israel’s military actions in Rafah are targeted and localized, with efforts to minimize civilian harm and support humanitarian activities. Noam emphasized that the conflict is tragic but not genocidal, reiterating that hostilities would cease if Hamas released hostages and disarmed.
South Africa has petitioned the ICJ four times in less than five months, claiming Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide. A previous request for emergency measures was dismissed, and the court is expected to decide on the latest petition soon.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have both emphasized the necessity of IDF operations in Rafah for Israel’s security. Gallant mentioned the destruction of Hamas tunnels, which Noam also highlighted in his speech. Noam noted the extensive tunnel infrastructure used by Hamas for smuggling weapons and potentially moving hostages or operatives.
Analysts suggest that the extensive smuggling tunnels might influence Egypt’s opposition to Israel’s actions in Rafah. Mark Dubowitz of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies criticized Egypt for allegedly profiting from the smuggling and called on the U.S. to pressure Egypt to halt this activity.
Despite increasing military operations in Rafah, Israel continues to expand humanitarian aid into Gaza.
