To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, what assessment he has made of the implications for his policies of the South African application to the International Court of Justice on Gaza.
Answered on
19 January 2024
In terms of the situation in Gaza, we recognise that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). We do not believe that calling this genocide is the right approach. It is wrong to suggest that Israeli leadership, and Israel as a country, have the intention to commit genocide
Ultimately, it is for the courts to decide on matters of genocide, not for states. We respect the role and independence of the International Court of Justice.