UK says South Africa’s genocide case ‘endangers peace’

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s official spokesman has condemned South Africa’s attempt to prosecute Israel for genocide over its conduct of the war in Gaza, saying it can only endanger the cause of peace.

Speaking to parliamentary reporters at their daily briefing on Thursday, he said the South African case was “completely unjustified and wrong”.

Sunak’s spokesman added: “His legal action does not serve the court of peace. The UK government stands by Israel’s clear right to defend itself within the framework of international law.”

Both main parties in Britain have upheld Israel’s right to defend itself and its attempt to destroy Hamas since the October 7 terrorist attacks.