South Africa's case to end Israel's allegation of genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip has started at the International Criminal Court in the Hague.

The case that was launched by South Africa in December calls for an end to alleged genocidal acts by Israel and the people of Gaza.

In this case, South Africa calls on Israel to prevent genocide against the people of Gaza. The legal team argued that Israeli leaders' statements are intended to destroy Gaza and its people.

South Africa's Minister of Justice, Ronald Lamola, said in his presentation to the court that Israel's response to the 7 October Hamas attack and taking of hostages has crossed the line of self-defence and gives rise to bridges of the Genocide Convention, saying this is the reason SA has initiated the case.

Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, whose responsibility it was to show allegation of genocide intent by Israel, said the way the war is conducted and Palestinians are herded into areas where they are continued to be killed is proof of the occupying power's intention. It is clear that Israel is bombing the entire Gaza Strip into a waste land.

South Africa's legal team consists of senior advocates, including Ngcukaitobi, John Dugard, a professor of international law, Max Du Preez, a specialist in constitutional law, and Adila Hassim, another specialist in constitutional, administrative, health, and competition law.

The South African team will conclude its case today, after which Israel will present its arguments on Friday.