While this lacks legally binding force by definition, it serves as a guiding precedent in international law. An immediate ceasefire, or cessation of hostilities, is the prime provisional measure requested by South Africa. As a European, I particularly hope that Europe takes a stand and proves its commitment to international law and human rights, otherwise the role of international law will be more critically and irredeemably undermined. South Africa’s action against Israel seems to have opened a new era in the relations between the Global North and the Global South, and the symbolic impact is profound. The bold stance taken by South Africa, now followed by a number of countries, is remarkably powerful.
