The Hague (HRNW)– Belgium has officially announced its support for South Africa in the case filed against Israel over the alleged genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.
According to the World News Agency, the case is under trial at the United Nations’ highest court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), based in The Hague, Netherlands. A statement from the ICJ said that Belgium has submitted a formal request to join the case, joining other countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, and Turkey that have already expressed support for South Africa.
The case was filed by South Africa in December 2023, accusing Israel’s military operations in Gaza of violating the 1948 United Nations Convention on the Prevention of Genocide. South Africa has asked the ICJ to order Israel to immediately halt the alleged genocide and military actions in Gaza. Israel, on the other hand, has rejected these allegations, asserting its right to self-defense under international law and criticizing the court action as unilateral and political.
Following the start of Israeli military operations in Gaza in October 2023, international reactions were swift. The ICJ initially directed Israel in January 2024 to refrain from actions related to genocide and ensure the provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Further requests regarding a ceasefire in Rafah and Gaza were heard in May 2024. Over time, several countries have joined the case, making it a significant global legal and political issue. Belgium’s involvement is being seen as an important development that could increase pressure on Israel at the International Court of Justice.
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