South Africa Requests ICC to Issue Arrest Warrant for Israeli Prime Minister

South Africa Requests ICC to Issue Arrest Warrant for Israeli Prime Minister

South Africa’s government, in an unprecedented move, has implored the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The deadline for this action is set for mid-December, signaling a bold stance from the African nation. The call was voiced by the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who cautioned that a failure to issue the warrant would correspond to a collapse in global governance systems.

South Africa Joined by Other Nations

South Africa’s appeal to the ICC is not a solo endeavor. Other nations, namely Bangladesh, Bolivia, Comoros, and Djibouti, have joined hands in submitting a referral to investigate alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. This collective effort underscores the international debate surrounding Netanyahu’s actions and the ongoing situation in Gaza.

(Read Also: Gaza Conflict Intensifies: Death Toll Rises Amid Calls for Ceasefire)

Escalation in Diplomatic Relations

In a further escalation, South Africa has begun the process of withdrawing its diplomatic staff from Israel. Additionally, it has cast doubt on the continued acceptability of the Israeli ambassador in Pretoria. This development marks a clear indication of the strained relations between South Africa and Israel.

(Read Also: Palestinians Arrested on Significant Thoroughfare Amid Ongoing Conflict)

Role of South African Unions

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has also echoed the call for Netanyahu’s arrest. The union has levied accusations of genocide and war crimes against Palestinians at the Israeli Prime Minister. Furthermore, it is advocating for the total isolation of ‘Apartheid Israel’ and the closure of its embassy, reflecting the steely resolve of the South African populace in this matter.

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