JOHANNESBURG - Thursday is a big day for South Africa and for world justice.
The first hearing at the International Court of Justice is set down with South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
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The International Court of Justice is the highest legal institution of the United Nations where global disputes are decided in accordance with international law.
South Africa has brought the case that begins tomorrow that has attracted world attention.
South Africa says there is evidence that Israel is committing genocide, looking at the bombardment of civilians, and the fact that Israel cut off food and aid supplies.
It also details statements made by Israeli officials that talk about Palestinians as worthy of punishment which suggests that this is not only – as Israel claims – a war against Hamas.
South Africa is saying that if theres a prima facie case of genocide the ICJ should immediately issue an order for Israel to suspend its Gaza offensive.
That order will be binding if given but states have simply ignored such orders before.
Kaajal Ramjathan–Keogh Lawyer and Director of the Africa Programme at the International Commission of Jurists discussed this with eNCA.