South Africa and the Claim Israel Is Committing Genocide in Gaza

Key Findings:

On December 29, 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging violations of the Genocide Convention in the Gaza conflict. This move aligns with South Africa’s long-standing political support for the Palestinian cause, rooted in the African National Congress’s (ANC) liberation struggle and its historical ties to the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). 

Although South Africa lacks the resources and insider access to independently compile such a legal case, it likely acted as a proxy for the Palestinians (similar to past international legal strategies involving third-party states). South Africa’s position has been consistent since the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023; it quickly blamed Israel’s occupation and policies, while initially omitting any condemnation of Hamas. Despite later issuing a delayed statement condemning Hamas’s actions, South Africa’s broader response included public support for Palestinian groups, high-level communication with Hamas leaders, and hosting a Hamas delegation.

South Africa’s foreign policy has historically favored movements that position themselves as anti-colonial. After apartheid, and under leaders like Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, South Africa maintained support for the Palestinians while attempting limited engagement with Israel. However, diplomatic ties with Israel have eroded over the past decade, evidenced in the withdrawal of ambassadors, refusal of ministerial meetings, and consistent support for UN and ICC measures against Israeli actions. Domestically, the ruling ANC has used this stance to align with its ideological base, even as it causes tension with South Africa’s Jewish community, which maintains strong ties to Israel.

Since joining BRICS in 2010, South Africa has aligned more closely with Russia and China, using the group to boost its global stature. It has supported Russia in the Ukraine war, straining ties with the U.S.—especially after a 2022 incident involving a Russian ship allegedly loaded with weapons. South Africa also avoids criticizing Russia, or countries like Iran and Sudan — instead preferring strong vocal stances against Israel. 

The ANC’s support for the ICJ genocide case against Israel may aim to attract Muslim voters ahead of elections, amid declining support and widespread domestic crises. The move carries little diplomatic cost, as ties with Israel are minimal. It also helps South Africa portray itself as a defender of international law (despite selective application) while strengthening its standing in BRICS. For Israel, the focus remains on legal defense, while the U.S. may consider trade pressure if it wants to influence South Africa’s alignment.