Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected South Africa's claim that Israel is committing genocide in its war against Hamas.
Netanyahu's comments came after South Africa applied to the International Court of Justice on Friday (29) to begin proceedings over allegations of genocide.
“I would like to say a word about South Africa's false accusation that Israel is 'committing genocide'. No, South Africa, it was not us who came to commit genocide, it was Hamas. They would kill us all if they could,” he said.
He further added that the Israel Defense Forces are acting in the “most moral manner” and “do everything to avoid harming civilians.”
He went on to accuse South Africa of presenting the case just for show and listed other conflicts in which he said the country had not taken steps to intervene.
“And I ask: Where were you, South Africa — and the rest of those who slander us — where were you when millions of people were murdered and displaced from their homes in Syria, Yemen and elsewhere? You guys weren’t there,” she questioned her.
The scenario is that Israel's aerial bombardment and ground invasion of Gaza, in response to the deadly Hamas terrorist attacks and wave of kidnappings on October 7, have caused widespread devastation in the densely populated coastal strip, sparking protests from aid groups and increasing pressure from the international community.
US President Joe Biden said earlier this month that Israel is involved in “indiscriminate bombings” in Gaza. US intelligence assessments suggest that nearly half of the air-to-ground munitions used by Israel in Gaza were unguided, also known as “dumb bombs.” Unguided munitions are generally less accurate and can pose a greater threat to civilians.
Supporters of Israel's campaign argue that these heavy munitions act as bunker busters, helping to destroy Hamas' underground tunnel infrastructure. However, these bombs are typically used sparingly by Western militaries, according to experts. International humanitarian law prohibits indiscriminate bombing.
Around 21,700 people have been killed in Gaza since October 7, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled enclave.
A CNN cannot independently verify the ministry's figures.
See also: Bolivian court prevents Evo Morales from running for president in 2025
Source: CNN Brasil
Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.
