Belgium has formally joined the case brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice, adding to growing international scrutiny of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The ICJ confirmed that Belgium filed a declaration of intervention, aligning itself with several countries that have already entered the proceedings.
South Africa initiated the case in December 2023, arguing that Israel’s actions in Gaza breach the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. Israel has strongly rejected the accusations and maintains that its military operations are lawful and defensive in nature.
Although a final ruling from the ICJ could take years, the court issued provisional measures in January 2024. These measures ordered Israel to take steps to prevent acts of genocide and to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into Gaza. While legally binding, the ICJ has no direct enforcement mechanism, leaving compliance dependent on international pressure.
Belgium’s intervention follows similar moves by Brazil, Colombia, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, and Türkiye, signalling a widening diplomatic front concerned about the humanitarian and legal implications of the war. The ICJ has also stated that Israel’s presence in occupied Palestinian territories is unlawful and that its policies amount to de facto annexation.
Despite these rulings and rising global criticism, Israeli military operations have continued in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. At the same time, the United States and several European allies have sustained military and financial support for Israel. Washington has dismissed the legal basis of South Africa’s case and sharply criticised the proceedings.
Belgium’s decision to intervene underscores a shifting international landscape, where legal accountability is increasingly being pursued alongside diplomatic pressure, even as the conflict shows no sign of immediate resolution.
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