The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has categorically denied claims that it requested South Africa to withdraw its case against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
In a statement issued on Thursday, the ministry rejected remarks attributed to former Palestinian official Nasser al-Qudwa, who alleged that Palestinian authorities had sought the withdrawal of South Africa’s lawsuit filed under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
The ministry said the allegations were false and expressed concern over what it described as a series of misleading and distorted claims circulated by al-Qudwa through social media platforms and podcast appearances.
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According to the statement, the accusations misrepresent the work of Palestinian diplomacy and undermine its international efforts.
The ministry also urged media organisations, podcast hosts and social media users to verify information carefully and report responsibly on issues related to Palestinian diplomatic initiatives.
It warned against amplifying what it described as unfounded narratives that could weaken efforts by the State of Palestine to defend the rights of the Palestinian people and protect their land and holy sites through international legal and diplomatic channels.
South Africa’s case against Israel before the International Court of Justice, filed under the Genocide Convention, remains ongoing.
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