An expanding international coalition has taken legal action against Israel over its operations in Gaza. More nations are joining South Africa’s genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). These legal moves aim to hold Israel accountable for alleged violations of international law.
Belize officially joined South Africa’s ICJ case on 30 January, 2025. It filed a declaration under Articles 62 and 63 of the ICJ Statute. This move signals growing international support for South Africa’s legal challenge. Other countries, including Nicaragua, Colombia, Cuba, Libya, Mexico, Palestine, Spain, and Türkiye, have also backed the case.
While the ICJ case proceeds, other legal avenues are under consideration. Some nations may pursue separate cases against Israel for alleged violations. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is also investigating alleged crimes in Palestine. These combined efforts reflect increasing legal scrutiny at the global level.
Formation of The Hague Group
South Africa and Malaysia launched The Hague Group on 31 January, 2025. Nine nations, including Belize, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Honduras, Namibia, Senegal, and South Africa, joined the coalition. Their mission is to enforce ICJ and ICC rulings on Israel. The group aims to block arms shipments to Israel and support legal action against its leaders.
The Hague Group outlined three key commitments. First, they pledged to enforce ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials. Second, they agreed to ban military supplies to Israel. Third, they vowed to disrupt arms supply chains. Belize and Bolivia severed diplomatic ties with Israel, while Colombia halted weapons purchases.
Enforcing ICJ and ICC rulings remains a major hurdle. Israel rejects the ICJ’s jurisdiction and disregards its decisions. Critics argue that The Hague Group overlooks other global conflicts. However, supporters see it as a crucial step toward accountability.
The coalition’s efforts mirror past actions against apartheid regimes. By combining legal and economic pressure, it seeks to challenge Israeli policies. More nations may join in the coming months, increasing the global push for justice in Gaza.
