DHAKA (Agencies): In a significant move, Bangladesh has firmly supported South Africa’s initiation of proceedings against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The case pertains to Israel’s violation of the Genocide Convention in relation to Palestinians in the occupied Gaza Strip. This legal action comes after continuous bombing of Gaza by Israeli Defense Forces over the past 100 days.
The provisional measures requested by South Africa include the suspension of all military operations in and against Gaza, as well as allowing safe, adequate, and unimpeded humanitarian aid into all areas of the region. These measures are crucial steps to address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
As a State Party to the Genocide Convention, Bangladesh emphasizes the need for all states to respect their obligations under the convention to prevent and punish the crime of genocide. The deliberate acts of aggression resulting in the loss of innocent Palestinian lives are considered a blatant disregard for international law.
Bangladesh also reiterates its calls for an immediate ceasefire and urges the rapid provision of life-saving assistance to Gaza. Furthermore, the country stands firm in its previous calls for an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestine and advocates for a lasting and permanent solution that establishes a sovereign and independent Palestinian State along pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
This joint effort by Bangladesh and South Africa underscores the importance of seeking justice and accountability in the face of grave violations.