Spain has applied to join South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The case, filed last year, alleges Israel's military actions breach the genocide convention. Other countries, including Mexico and Colombia, also seek to join the case.
In a landmark move on Thursday, Spain became the first European nation to request permission from the United Nations' International Court of Justice (ICJ) to join South Africa’s case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. This significant step follows South Africa's filing of the case late last year, alleging that Israel's military actions in Gaza violate the genocide convention.
South Africa's case centers on accusations that Israel's military assault has caused widespread devastation in Gaza, particularly targeting the southern city of Rafah. Despite an order from the ICJ to halt its military operations in Rafah, Israel has neither complied nor indicated any intention to do so.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized Spain's commitment to justice, stating, "There should be no doubt that Spain will remain on the right side of history." The announcement by Spain's foreign minister marks a pivotal moment in the international legal and diplomatic response to the ongoing conflict.
Several other countries, including Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua, Libya, and the Palestinians, are also awaiting approval from the ICJ to join the case. This collective action underscores a growing international demand for accountability regarding Israel's military operations in Gaza.
Israel, however, strongly denies the genocide allegations, asserting that its military actions are aimed at dismantling Hamas, following the group's deadly attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The situation remains tense as the ICJ prepares for the preliminary hearings later this year, which will determine the admissibility of the case and potentially reshape international legal precedents.
