Israel has vehemently rejected South Africa's accusation of "genocidal" acts in Gaza, as the case is launched at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Israeli foreign ministry spokesperson denounced South Africa's claim as lacking factual and legal basis, dubbing it a "blood libel" and accusing the country of exploiting the court. Israel contends that it is cooperating with a terrorist organization, Hamas, which has committed war crimes and sought to commit genocide in Gaza.

South Africa, supported by Palestine's foreign ministry, has filed a case at the ICJ, claiming that Israel's policy, acts, and omissions are genocidal in character, with specific intent to destroy the Palestinian people under its colonial occupation and apartheid regime. Palestine's foreign ministry called for urgent action to protect the Palestinians from further harm and ensure an objective legal resolution.

In a separate development, the UN's top aid official condemns the reported incident where Israeli troops reportedly opened fire on an aid convoy in Gaza. The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees stated that the convoy was clearly marked and its movements were coordinated with the parties involved. He emphasized that attacks on humanitarian workers are unlawful and called for the conflict to cease.

Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with the conflict claiming at least 21,507 lives since its outbreak almost twelve weeks ago, according to the territory's health ministry. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees also reported that 308 people have been killed while seeking shelter in UN shelters. The World Health Organization expresses grave concern over the growing threat of infectious diseases in Gaza, with thousands of cases of respiratory infections and diarrhoea recorded, particularly among children under five.

In further developments, Qatari mediators inform Israel that Hamas has agreed, in principle, to resume talks on the release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for a pause in fighting. Additionally, a Hamas delegation is expected in Cairo to review an Egyptian plan for a ceasefire that would bring an end to the war in Gaza. The plan reportedly includes ceasefire renewals, the gradual release of hostages, and, ultimately, a comprehensive ceasefire.

On the ground, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announce the discovery and destruction of a hideout belonging to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in northern Gaza. IDF troops reveal the finding of an apartment and an extensive tunnel system, used by senior Hamas members, beneath it.

Lastly, the director of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees accuses Israel of firing on an aid convoy in Gaza. While no injuries occurred, one vehicle sustained damage in the incident.

The ICJ case between South Africa and Israel is expected to garner significant attention in the international community, as the parties present their arguments and await a resolution from the court. The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to raise concerns over the humanitarian situation and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.