January 11, 2024 - PBS NewsHour full episode
PBS NewsHourDec 30, 2023
Rafah Offensive: South Africa Makes 'Urgent Request' to ICJ
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The Facts
South Africa said Monday it filed an "urgent request" with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to consider additional emergency measures to protect the local population in Rafah amid the planned expansion of Israel's military offensive in the southern Gazan city.
In its request, Pretoria described Rafah as "the last refuge for surviving people in Gaza" and urged the ICJ to weigh if Israel's recent offensive requires the World Court to use its authority "to prevent further imminent breach of the rights of Palestinians in Gaza."
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
Israel has no choice but to expand its military operations to Rafah, as the city remains Hamas' last stronghold. Israel is trying to limit the toll by urging civilians to head to humanitarian zones on the coast. But Hamas has been known to use refugees as human shields.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Israel has repeatedly issued warnings to civilians to seek out safe areas where the country has still proceeded to carry out bombings and other deadly tactics. The Israeli government continues to disregard Palestinian lives and the country's genocidal actions warrant international condemnation.
