Egypt backs South Africa in genocide case against Israel at ICJ

In response to escalating military operations in Gaza, Egypt declares its support for South Africa’s International Court of Justice (ICJ)’s genocide case against Israel, emphasizing the need for compliance with international humanitarian laws

Egypt has announced its decision to actively support South Africa in its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

This move responds to the increasing severity and scope of Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip, escalating to what the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs describes as an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

With this step Egypt aligns itself with South Africa, aiming to address allegations that Israel has breached international law, including humanitarian law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.

“These attacks include deliberate targeting of civilians, infrastructure destruction, forced displacement, and creating unbearable living conditions,” stated the Ministry. Egypt has called on Israel, as the occupying power, to comply with its international obligations.

“The actions by Israel not only violate international norms but also the 4th Geneva Convention of 1949, which protects civilians during wartime,” the Ministry emphasized.

It also asserted Israel’s obligation to follow interim measures from the ICJ to ensure Palestinians in Gaza receive adequate humanitarian aid and to stop any violations against the Palestinian people.

Moreover, the Ministry reiterated its appeal to the U.N. Security Council and influential global entities to act promptly.

It urged these bodies to halt the ongoing military operations in Gaza and Rafah and to provide the necessary protections for Palestinian civilians.

The ICJ had previously directed Israel to ensure the timely delivery of essential food supplies to Gaza and to prevent any actions that might fall under the Genocide Convention.

Following this directive, Egypt has positioned itself as a significant player in the international legal arena, backing South Africa’s stance and showing a unified regional effort to address the crisis in Gaza.

A former Israeli Foreign Minister described Egypt’s involvement as an “unbelievable diplomatic blow to Israel,” pointing to the substantial impact of Egypt’s decision.

With this action, Egypt stands with South Africa and other interested nations like Türkiye and Colombia, presenting a cohesive response to the ongoing conflict. 

Source: Newsroom