Hamas stronghold in Rafah is key to its survival in Gaza - analysis
Jerusalem PostFeb 08
Rafah Offensive: South Africa Makes 'Urgent Request' to ICJ
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-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.
Nerd narrative
There's a 9% chance that the International Criminal Court will bring charges against Benjamin Netanyahu before Jan. 1, 2026, according to the Metaculus prediction community.