20 November 2024 / 19 Cheshvan 5785
The South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) will petition Justice Minister Thembi Simelane to investigate serious allegations that South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was politically motivated and funded by foreign entities including Iran and Qatar. These allegations, which require thorough investigation, stem from a new report by the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism (ISGAP), an organisation with significant influence among U.S. lawmakers.
The ISGAP report raises concerns about the ANC government’s motivations and conduct in pursuing the case.
“The report makes serious claims that require thorough verification,” says SAZF National Spokesperson Rolene Marks. “These include alleged connections between members of South Africa’s legal team and terror groups such as the PFLP, as well as the purported involvement of anti-Israel NGOs in shaping this case.”
“Of particular concern are allegations in the report regarding a substantial, unexplained cash injection allegedly received by the ANC shortly after initiating the ICJ lawsuit,” Marks continues. “If verified, these claims would raise serious questions about whether foreign entities committed to delegitimising Israel have influenced the ANC’s actions, rather than the democratic will of South African citizens. The timing of the ICJ case, coinciding with South Africa’s 2024 election campaign, adds to concerns about potential misuse of government resources.”
The SAZF calls for:
- An independent investigation into the alleged funding sources behind the ICJ case
- Full transparency from the ANC regarding these allegations
- A formal response from Minister Simelane outlining steps to investigate these claims
The Federation also urges all members of the Government of National Unity to ensure South Africa’s foreign policy reflects democratic values and serves its citizens’ interests.
“South Africa’s future prosperity depends on upholding constitutional values, human rights, freedom, and peace,” Marks emphasizes. “If these allegations prove true, our current alignment with autocratic states could threaten our trade relations with Western nations and put our fragile economy at risk. All parties within the GNU must work to ensure South Africa’s foreign policy aligns with democratic principles to prevent isolating our nation from peace-supporting states.”
