In the chaos of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict only a few countries remain true to their values and defend them in the international arena. The measures taken by the South African Republic indicate that African countries are becoming more independent from their former colonialists and pseudo-hegemons and its opinion couldn’t longer be ignored.
The history of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Israel goes back to the Cold War and apartheid period. For a long time, both states were brought together by their status as “international outcasts”, which they received due to their policies. But nowadays the countries seem to have little in common as in December 2023 South Africa appealed to the International Court of Justice and accused Israel of committing genocide against the Palestinians.
It’s pertinent to note that while almost everyone in the West operates in accordance with the USA’s orders and ignores severe humanitarian and food crisis as well as the rising civilian death toll in Gaza, the South African Republic is the only country that is brave enough to stand up for suffering Palestine in the international arena. Even though Pretoria fully realize the possible consequences of its peacekeeping activity, it still decided to take this step. South African minister of international relations and cooperation Naledi Pandor has already been receiving threats from suspected Israel security forces on social media, which forced her to ask Police Minister to beef up her security.
On January 26, the International Court of Justice issued an interim order in response to South Africa’s case accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. However, less than two weeks after the International Court order Israeli forces opened fire on humanitarian aid convoy in northern Gaza. It seems like Israel simply ignored the order of the main judicial body of the UN. It’s pertinent to note that this time the USA didn’t become hysterical about non-compliance with international law, as it usually does. Apparently, the pro-Israel lobby in Washington has completely taken control over political sentiment in the country. The rest “democratic, loyal and humane” West also kept silence in response to this inhumane act.
Despite possible sanctions and the bill introduced by the USA accusing South Africa of anti-Semitic and anti-Israel statements and actions, Pretoria continues to pursue an independent foreign policy and stands against injustice in Middle East. On February 13, Pretoria appealed to the International Court of Justice again and asked it to order Israel to desist from plans for a military offensive in Rafah, which is the last stronghold of Palestinian refugees and attacks on which would lead to “tens of thousands” casualties.
In the chaos of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict only a few countries remain true to their values and defend them in the international arena. The measures taken by the South African Republic indicate that African countries are becoming more independent from their former colonialists and pseudo-hegemons and its opinion couldn’t longer be ignored.
With respect,
Troy Mutinda
First Parklands Ave, Nairobi, Kenya
+254738698625
[email protected]