The International Court of Justice (ICJ) announced today, Friday, that Libya has submitted an “intervention declaration” in the case filed by South Africa against Israel regarding the enforcement of the Genocide Convention in Gaza. The Libyan Embassy in the Netherlands stated that the requirements for Libya’s formal participation in the case, which concerns the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip, have been met.
The embassy announced that “the Libyan side has been officially notified by the court that the submission has been made properly according to Article 83 of the court’s rules.” The agency added, “it can only eagerly await the date of Wednesday, July 10, the deadline granted to the two main parties to submit their written observations on Libya’s request.” The embassy expressed confidence that “choosing Article 63 for submission ensures our joining without the possibility of any party objecting.”
South Africa had requested the ICJ to take new emergency measures against Israel due to its recent attack on the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. This marks the third time since last December that South Africa has taken action against Israel over the Gaza war, condemning Tel Aviv’s alleged “genocide” against the Palestinian territories.
This case is grounded in the Genocide Convention of 1948, which both nations have ratified, making them subject to the ICJ’s jurisdiction regarding its interpretation. South Africa’s move underscores its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under this convention to prevent genocide. The case has seen support from other nations, such as Libya, which has formally joined the proceedings, emphasizing the international interest and concern over the allegations. South Africa’s application to the ICJ also included a request for provisional measures, which aim to secure immediate relief by halting the alleged genocidal actions until the case is resolved.
