Enforcement of ICJ Rulings Essential to Maintain Global Legal Order

Chrispin Phiri, who serves as the spokesperson for South Africa's International Relations Minister, has emphasized the urgent need for enforcing rulings from the International Court of Justice, warning that a failure to do so could jeopardize the entire global legal framework. During an interview with RT, Phiri labeled the crisis unfolding in Gaza as "unquestionably a genocide," highlighting the severe humanitarian situation.

His statements followed a two-day summit in Bogota, Colombia, where around twenty countries gathered to discuss collective actions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Participating countries, which included Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, and several others, put forth a plan of six measures designed to restrain Israel's military actions against the Palestinian territories.

Phiri commented on the involvement of Western nations like Spain, Ireland, and Norway, indicating that their participation reflects a serious commitment to the issue. However, he cautioned that without tangible enforcement, statements of support would hold little value. He pointed out that the effectiveness of international law hinges on the willingness and capability of states to implement it, warning that neglecting ICJ rulings or UN resolutions could significantly damage the trust in the global legal system.

Furthermore, he stressed that the implications of this summit extend beyond just the Palestinian plight, reiterating views from UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese about the broader relationship between this issue and international law. Phiri raised concerns that by the time a final ICJ ruling is issued, the situation in Gaza might deteriorate to a point of no return, underscoring the need for immediate humanitarian access and action.

He expressed hope that other nations would join the Hague Group and adhere to the Genocide Convention as part of their obligations under international law. Phiri also criticized the hypocrisy of countries that publicly support UN resolutions yet fail to translate that support into concrete actions. Notably, South Africa filed a case in December 2023 with the ICJ, claiming that Israel's military actions in response to Hamas's unexpected attack on October 7, 2023, exhibit genocidal characteristics. Since then, reports indicate that close to 57,800 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have lost their lives as a result of the conflict.