South Africa has welcomed a United Nations report detailing the severe impact of the conflict in Gaza on Palestinian children.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the findings reinforce concerns raised by South Africa in its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry published the report on 23 June 2026. It examined alleged violations against Palestinian children in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel.
Report Details Harm Suffered by Children
According to Magwenya, the commission identified a clear pattern of conduct involving direct attacks on Palestinian children.
The report documented physical and psychological harm caused by bombings, shootings and collapsing buildings. It also examined the denial of medical care, food and water.
The commission found that living conditions had become incompatible with children’s physical growth, education and overall well-being.
It also raised concerns about restrictions on healthcare for newborn babies and attacks affecting Palestinian education.
South Africa Links Findings to ICJ Case
Magwenya said the findings confirmed risks outlined in South Africa’s December 2023 application to the ICJ.
He said Palestinian children were now carrying the cost of the international community’s failure to act.
The spokesperson also noted that the ICJ had issued three provisional measures and two advisory opinions. However, he said conditions on the ground had shown little improvement.
Magwenya accused Israel of obstructing humanitarian organisations and human rights defenders through harassment, threats, bans and sanctions. He said this had left Palestinian children with even less protection.
Government Promises Continued Action
South Africa intends to continue using legal and diplomatic channels to support Palestinian self-determination and protect civilians.
Magwenya said meaningful healing could not take place while the conflict continued.
He compared the international response needed for Gaza to the global solidarity movement that followed the 1976 Soweto uprising.
The government hopes the UN report will encourage more countries to support urgent international action.
South Africa maintains that the findings reaffirm its allegation that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Israel has previously faced proceedings brought by South Africa before the ICJ over its conduct in the territory.
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