Iceland and the Netherlands have joined South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Both countries filed declarations of intervention under Article 63 of the ICJ Statute on March 11, 2026. This means they will share their views on the Genocide Convention and how it applies to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
South Africa started the case in December 2023, accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention by committing genocide in Gaza. The ICJ has already issued orders for Israel to prevent genocidal acts, stop military operations that risk civilians, and report back regularly.
Iceland stressed that attacks on children, forced displacement, and blocking humanitarian aid could show genocidal intent, and that the court must look carefully at all possible reasons behind these acts. The Netherlands said genocide might include using starvation as a weapon or stopping aid, and that acts against civilians like withholding food and water should be examined closely.
This brings the number of countries supporting South Africa’s case to more than 30, including Bolivia, Chile, Maldives, Spain, Belgium, and Ireland. Many nations believe Israel’s actions break international laws on preventing genocide. The ICJ will use these inputs to decide if Israel violated the convention.
The case has drawn attention worldwide. Groups like CAIR welcomed the move, saying it shows growing support for justice in Gaza. Experts say more countries joining strengthens South Africa’s position and puts pressure on Israel to follow court orders.
This development reminds everyone of the serious charges against Israel and the need for peace in Gaza. The ICJ’s final ruling could take time, but these interventions add weight to the case.
