COSATU welcomes the ICC’s arrest warrants and upholding justice for Palestine
22 November 2024
COSATU welcome the International Criminal Court (ICC) decision to issue the warrant of arrest of Israeli President, Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
This warrant confirms the massive evidence and ICJ findings of war crimes and genocide as the basis of the apartheid state of Israel and its war of colonial occupation against the Palestinian people.
The ICC’s decision represents a turning point in the global pursuit of justice. For too long Israelis have acted with impunity, committing atrocities such as bombings of civilian areas, forced displacement, and the destruction of essential infrastructure, including schools, and hospitals. It is our view that the arrest warrant highlights that there is no individual or state is above international law, reaffirming one of the ICC’s key responsibilities which is holding perpetrators accountable.
The decision by the ICC aligns with COSATU’s long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian struggle. We reaffirm our commitment to expose Israeli Apartheid, COSATU will continue to educate and mobilize workers globally to pressure governments and corporations complicit in Israel’s crimes. COSATU calls on workers and trade unions worldwide to rally behind Palestine, recognizing that the struggle for justice there is part of the broader fight against global inequality and imperialism.
We call on the South African government and the international community to ensure these arrest warrants are enforced, to act in line with the responsibilities according to the Rome Statute, and to intensify efforts to bring an end to the atrocities in Palestine.
Additionally, the 29th of November 2024 is the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People to participate in activities planned to take place on the day.
Issued by Bongani Masuku, COSATU International Secretary, 22 November 2024
