On Thursday, 11 January, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague opened hearings in the Gaza genocide case against Israel brought by South Africa. The trial is widely regarded as a test for the applicability of international law towards a State often accused of acting above the law with impunity. South Africa wants the ICJ to recognise that there is an “urgency” in Gaza inflicted by Israel’s offensive that requires it to order an immediate cessation of hostilities. As the hearings began, large duelling demonstrations organised by Israel supporters and pro-Palestinian groups conve…