Israel denies South Africa’s accusation that its military campaign in Gaza constitutes a genocidal act against Palestinians.
In its latest appeal, South Africa asked the United Nations’ highest court to take urgent action to order a halt to the Israeli assault on Rafah.
Since the start of the month, Israeli forces have been bombarding the southern city where more than 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge after fleeing other parts of Gaza.
Hundreds of thousands of people are once again forced to flee. Israel says its operation is limited and aims to target Hamas’ last stronghold in Rafah.
South Africa calls this an act of genocide.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered some interim measures since South Africa filed a complaint in January.
But Israel has largely ignored them.
So, can the ICJ enforce its orders? And will his decisions make a difference beyond affecting world opinion?
Presenter:
Elizabeth Puranam
Guests:
Toby Cadman, international human rights lawyer.
Nour Odeh, political analyst
Robbie Sabel, professor of international law at the Hebrew University.
