As 2023 drew to a close last week, South Africa decided to file a claim at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, preposterously accusing Israel of carrying out genocide in Gaza.

As 2023 concluded, South Africa filed a claim at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Genocide, defined under the Genocide Convention of 1948, involves acts intended to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. However, accusing Israel of genocide lacks merit, as Israel’s actions aim to defend itself against a genocidal threat, not to destroy the Palestinian people.

The U.S. National Security Council rejected the claim, emphasizing its lack of basis in fact. Israeli leaders clarify that their goal is to eliminate Hamas, a recognized terrorist group openly committed to Israel’s destruction.

While civilian casualties are tragic, Hamas, through human shields and embedding in civilian areas, bears responsibility. The IDF takes measures to warn civilians before attacks, ensuring adherence to international humanitarian law principles.

South Africa’s accusation is viewed as lawfare influenced by the Iranian regime and Hamas, diminishing the gravity of actual genocides. The upcoming International Court of Justice hearing should focus on real perpetrators, primarily Hamas, rather than entertaining baseless claims against Israel.