Israeli lawmaker Ofer Cassif has sparked controversy by endorsing a petition in support of South Africa’s genocide case against Israel, currently being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ is examining claims that Israel is committing genocide in its conflict with Gaza.
Ofer Cassif Biography
Born in Rishon LeZion near Tel Aviv in 1964, Cassif is a member of the left-wing Hadash-Ta’al party. He holds a doctorate in political philosophy from the London School of Economics and was an academic at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem before entering politics. Cassif, known for dissenting views, emphasized his duty to Israeli society while distancing himself from a government he accuses of promoting ethnic cleansing and genocide.
His support for the South African lawsuit against Israel adds to his history of opposition to mainstream Israeli policies. Cassif, who spent time in jail for refusing military service in the occupied territories, was elected to the Knesset despite being initially kept off the ballot in the 2019 elections. His refusal to take sides in the Ukraine-Russia war further distinguishes him, highlighting his commitment to peace over supporting conflicting parties in unnecessary conflicts.
