US could face ramifications if ICJ rules against Israel: Gevers

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The University of Kwa-Zulu Natal’s International Law lecturer Christopher Gevers has highlighted potential ramifications for the United States should the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rule against Israel in the current case where South Africa has accused Israel of genocide during its conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

While Israel has firmly denied these allegations, the case is currently under deliberation at the ICJ. y

Gevers emphasized that if the court finds Israel guilty of genocide, member states, including the United States, would be obligated under the Genocide Convention to acknowledge and act upon the ruling.

“The Genocide Convention dictates that states must recognize violations of International Law as determined by the court. This places a binding obligation on member states, including the United States, to prevent genocide,” says Gevers.

Furthermore, Gevers pointed to the close diplomatic, intelligence and military ties between the United States and Israel. He indicated that these ties could potentially lead to accusations of complicity or aiding and abetting genocide, a distinct crime as outlined in the Genocide Convention.

Reactions to US vetoing UNSC Gaza aid resolution:

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) since the start of the war in Gaza has failed to adopt three proposed draft resolutions.

An initial resolution tabled at the UNSC on October 18, 2023, which called for “humanitarian pauses” was vetoed by the US, while twelve countries voted in its favour.

Russia and China later blocked a US-drafted resolution that called for “humanitarian pauses” and Israel’s right to defend itself. Another draft resolution sponsored by Russia, which called for a humanitarian ceasefire, failed to garner enough votes to pass.

The US was expected to veto the resolution had it garnered enough votes to put it on the path to approval.

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