South African Foreign Minister Facing Threats After ICJ Case Against Israel

Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations, has reported receiving threats following the country’s complaint against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Pandor voiced her concerns during a press conference at the State of the Nation’s Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa. She has since requested increased security from the country’s police chief due to being targeted on social media. South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ aims to halt the country’s military attacks in Gaza and cease forced displacement, allowing humanitarian access to thousands of Palestinians. President Ramaphosa labeled the military attacks as genocide during Sona24 on February 8, a claim deemed “plausible” by the ICJ. The large Jewish community in South Africa has shown varying reactions, with some opposing the country’s actions while others support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and advocate for the rights of both Palestinians and Israelis. Pandor has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to pursuing the ICJ case, stating that the country “can’t back down now” during discussions with the Mail and Guardian.