Thank you for contacting me about the South Africa, which has filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). I agree with the Government that this development is unhelpful and do not support it.
Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas, but must act within international humanitarian law. I do not believe that calling this genocide is the right approach.
The British Government’s long-standing position is that it is for courts to decide on matters of genocide, not states. It of course respects the role and independence of the ICJ.
Thank you for taking the time to contact me.
Kind regards,
Graham