International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to pursuing its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), stressing that the move is aimed at safeguarding the Palestinian people and strengthening the universal application of international law.
Briefing a joint sitting of Parliament’s Portfolio Committees on International Relations and Justice on Wednesday, Lamola said the case reflects South Africa’s legal and moral obligations to uphold human rights and contribute to global peace. He noted that the proceedings are intended not only to address the situation in Gaza but also to reinforce humanitarian law in conflict zones worldwide.
Lamola’s remarks come against the backdrop of renewed tensions in the Middle East after Israel launched a military strike on Qatari territory, which it said was aimed at Hamas-linked facilities. The attack, condemned by Doha as a breach of sovereignty, has drawn international criticism and complicated ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire.
Global Significance of the Case
According to Lamola, South Africa’s challenge at the ICJ carries weight beyond the immediate conflict, with the potential to set a precedent for how the world responds to state-led violence and accountability. He argued that a lack of action undermines the consistency of international law and emboldens violations elsewhere.
South Africa has also been active in broader diplomatic efforts. Recently, it co-chaired a meeting of The Hague Group in Bogotá with Colombia, where 30 nations gathered to coordinate strategies in support of Palestinian self-determination and an end to the Israeli occupation. Together with the Madrid Group, the initiative is pushing for an immediate ceasefire and a path to lasting peace.
Advocating a Two-State Solution
Reiterating Pretoria’s long-standing stance, Lamola said South Africa continues to back a two-state solution. He called for urgent measures to clear obstacles to peace, including a permanent ceasefire, renewed negotiations, the release of hostages and political prisoners, halting settlement expansion, and dismantling occupied territories.
He added that South Africa will keep working through global institutions to uphold the right to life, whether in Gaza, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or elsewhere. The country, he stressed, remains committed to accountability, justice, and peace in international affairs.
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