Berlin, January 26, 2024 – Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock issued a statement today in response to the ruling by the International Court of Justice on the provisional measures requested by South Africa in the case concerning the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa v. Israel).
Baerbock stated, “The International Court of Justice has mandated provisional measures in relation to South Africa’s request, and it’s crucial to emphasize that these measures are binding under international law. Israel is expected to comply with the Court’s order.”
She highlighted that the Court, while not ruling on the main substance of the matter, acknowledged Israel’s actions in Gaza following the terror incident on October 7. Baerbock underscored the Court’s stance on Hamas, stating, “The Court has made it clear that Hamas is also bound by international humanitarian law and must release all hostages.”
Baerbock assured, “Germany will do everything in its power to support the implementation of these measures, including endorsing the Court’s directive for Israel to take immediate steps to facilitate the provision of more humanitarian assistance to Gaza.”
