South Africa to Detain Citizens Who Serve in Israeli Army upon Return
South Africa Takes Strong Stance Against Support for Israel
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister Pandor, recently issued a warning to South African citizens who fight alongside the Israel Defense Forces. Speaking at a solidarity event with Palestine organized by the ruling party African National Congress (ANC), Minister Pandor stated, “We are ready to detain you when you return to your homeland.”
The Ministry had previously announced that South African citizens could risk losing their citizenship if they participated in a war that the country did not support. This warning comes in the wake of ongoing conflict in Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Adding to the tension, on December 29, 2023, South Africa filed a lawsuit against Israel with the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The lawsuit alleges that Israel violated the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide from 1948. The ICJ held hearings on the request for precautionary measures on January 11-12, ultimately ordering Israel to take immediate action to prevent genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
The Court’s decision included directives for Israel to protect Palestinians in Gaza, prevent acts defined in the Genocide Convention, and ensure the provision of basic services and humanitarian aid. Additionally, Israel was ordered to prevent the destruction of evidence showing violations of the law and to report on measures taken within one month of the decision.
South Africa’s strong stance against support for Israel underscores the country’s commitment to human rights and international law. The ongoing legal proceedings at the ICJ highlight the severity of the situation in Gaza and the need for accountability in addressing allegations of genocide.
