Belgium Joins the International Legal Battle Over Gaza

Belgium has recently taken a significant step by formally joining the case initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which alleges that Israel is committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. This action highlights a growing international concern regarding the situation in Gaza, as several other countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, and Turkiye, have already participated in the proceedings.

Background of the Case

The case, filed by South Africa in December 2023, contends that Israel’s military actions in Gaza contravene the 1948 UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. In response to these serious allegations, Israel has refuted the claims and criticized the legal challenge against it.

ICJ’s Involvement and Provisional Measures

While a definitive ruling from the ICJ may take years to materialize, the court issued provisional measures in January 2024. These orders mandated that Israel must take necessary actions to prevent acts deemed genocidal in Gaza and facilitate unobstructed access for humanitarian aid. Although the ICJ’s directives are legally binding, it lacks the resources to enforce compliance directly.

Furthermore, the ICJ has declared Israel’s presence in occupied Palestinian territories unlawful and posited that its policies amount to annexation.

Ongoing Conflict and International Response

Despite these court rulings and increasing international criticism, Israel has continued its military operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank while simultaneously progressing plans to annex portions of Palestinian land. The United States, along with several of its European allies, maintains military and financial support for Israel, while Washington has dismissed the validity of South Africa’s case. Additionally, US lawmakers have strongly criticized South Africa and threatened reprisals.

The US has also imposed sanctions on members of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued arrest warrants for Israeli figures, such as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

Recognition of Palestine

Belgium’s involvement in this critical case follows its recognition of the State of Palestine in September, joining nearly 80 percent of UN member states that also acknowledge Palestinian statehood.

Harsh Humanitarian Toll

Tragically, since a ceasefire began on October 10, the Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported that Israel has killed at least 406 Palestinians and injured over 1,100 in Gaza. Moreover, since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, these figures have reached an alarming tally, with at least 70,942 Palestinians killed and 171,195 wounded.

Conclusion

The legal actions taken at the ICJ reveal the escalating international response to the conflict in Gaza, emphasizing the grave humanitarian implications and the urgent need for accountability. As proceedings unfold, the implications are likely to resonate beyond the courtroom, potentially affecting global foreign policy and humanitarian efforts moving forward.

• Belgium has joined South Africa’s case at the ICJ alleging genocide by Israel.
• Other nations participating include Brazil, Colombia, Ireland, and Turkiye.
• The ICJ has issued provisional measures requiring Israel to prevent genocide and allow humanitarian access.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in substantial casualties among Palestinians, raising serious humanitarian concerns.