Dehumanization and the genocide case (South Africa v. Israel)

: from human animals to no uninvolved civilians

Abstract

Shaped by complex geopolitical dynamics, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict stands as one of the most intractable crises on the global stage. The latest escalation, sparked by the October 7, 2023 attacks led by Hamas, triggered an unprecedented military campaign by Israel, causing staggering civilian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza. In a landmark move, South Africa initiated proceedings before the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing acts of genocide against the Palestinian people and through a series of provisional measures, the Court has signaled a recognition of the gravity and urgency of the situation. Of particular relevance, this case places the Court’s conservative approach to genocidal intent under renewed scrutiny. Furthermore, the causal relationship between dehumanization and the crime of genocide is evident in this conflict. The Israeli occupation policies, the distortion of International Humanitarian Law and the use of dehumanizing language by Israeli officials have been progressively excluding Palestinians from moral and legal protections, culminating in an existential threat to an entire population.

Date of Award	3 Oct 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	José Azeredo Lopes (Supervisor)