John Kirby, the spokesman for the US National Security Council, has recently addressed the escalating conflict involving Israel and Hamas. He firmly dismissed the growing allegations of Israel committing genocide in Gaza as baseless. This statement came in response to a lawsuit filed by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
South Africa’s lawsuit alleges that Israel is conducting genocidal actions in its military operations in Gaza, seeking an immediate halt to the offensive. This legal action claims the Israeli assault has resulted in over 23,000 Palestinian deaths, including a significant number of children.
During the ICJ hearings, which began this Thursday, South Africa presented its arguments first, followed by Israel’s defense on Friday. Kirby, in a conversation with Riz Khan of Al Arabiya, emphasized that there is no evidence supporting the accusations of genocide against Israel.
The US official also pointed fingers at Yahya al-Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, for initiating the war. He highlighted the violation of an existing ceasefire on October 7, leading to a deadly cross-border incursion attributed to Hamas. According to Kirby, this act resulted in 1,200 deaths and 240 abductions, as stated by Israel.
While the United States continues to back Israel’s right to self-defense, Kirby also noted America’s active role in mitigating the conflict. Efforts include ongoing discussions with Middle Eastern allies to enhance humanitarian aid flow into Gaza, reduce civilian casualties, and prevent the conflict from escalating further.
In the context of a post-conflict Gaza, Kirby touched on the potential future governance of the war-stricken area. He stated that the Biden administration does not endorse the idea of Gaza’s reoccupation by Israeli forces. Instead, he envisions a return to normalcy for Palestinians in Gaza, underlining their right to live, work, and prosper in their homeland.
He further expressed optimism about a reformed Palestinian Authority playing a significant role in this process. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is reportedly in active talks with Israeli officials, Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, and regional allies, focusing on Gaza’s rehabilitation post-war.
