Israel tells ICJ not seeking to destroy Palestinian people
Israel is not seeking to destroy the Palestinian people in its war in Gaza, it told the UN top court Friday as it hit back at a genocide case against it.
Legal adviser to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tal Becker told the International Court of Justice that their war in Gaza is being waged to protect the people of Israel.
"It is in response to the slaughter of October 7th, which Hamas openly vows to repeat, and the ongoing attacks from Gaza. Israel has the inherent right to take all legitimate measures to defend its citizens and secure the release of the hostages."
"This right is also not in doubt. It has been acknowledged by states across the world."
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Israel on Thursday responded to South Africa's accusations that it's committing genocide in the territory.
South Africa's legal team yesterday laid out the country's case, telling the top UN court that Israel's bombardment of Gaza is systematic in character and form and that there was no justification for its actions.
It wants the ICJ to order an immediate ceasefire.
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