Nine months after filing the lawsuit at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the Israeli Channel Kan Reshet Bet revealed that South Africa is requesting an extension to submit its evidence. South Africa is obligated to present its evidence by October 28, 2024, but is seeking more time to gather additional evidence.
This tactic, described as an attempt to “buy time,” suggests that South Africa does not have sufficient evidence to support its claims of accusing Israel of “genocide.” The move is considered unusual, as typically, the party filing the lawsuit seeks to expedite proceedings, while the defendant aims to delay them.
Reports indicate that officials in Jerusalem have reacted cautiously but optimistically to the developments. While Israel has not made any official statement on the matter, the weakness in South Africa’s evidence, as portrayed by their own prosecution, may ultimately lead to the dismissal of the case against Israel.
Additionally, Axios reported that the Israeli Foreign Ministry has sent diplomatic messages to its embassy in Washington and all consulates in the U.S., urging collaboration with members of Congress, governors, and Jewish organizations to pressure South Africa to change its stance toward Israel. Officials have expressed hope that the new government in South Africa will adopt a less hostile approach to Israel.
The fact that South Africa is seeking an extension may indicate real difficulties in gathering evidence for the lawsuit, which Israel views as a significant positive in the ongoing international legal battle.
