Israel is set to defend itself at the UN court against accusations of genocide in Gaza. This comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected calls by right-wing ministers to permanently occupy the enclave. The International Court of Justice in The Hague is holding hearings in a case brought by South Africa, claiming Israel’s war against Hamas militants violates the 1948 Genocide Convention. Israel’s government spokesperson Eylon Levy stated that Israel will appear before the court to dispel South Africa’s allegations. The hearings will focus on South Africa’s request for emergency measures ordering Israel to suspend its military actions in Gaza. Netanyahu also clarified that Israel has no intention of permanently occupying Gaza and is fighting Hamas terrorists, not the Palestinian population. Jordan and Egypt have warned against any Israeli reoccupation of the Gaza Strip.