On Thursday, Spain became the first European nation to seek permission from a United Nations (UN) court to join South Africa’s case against Israel, accusing it of genocide in Gaza.
South Africa initiated the case with the International Court of Justice late last year, alleging that Israel violated the genocide convention through its military actions, which have devastated large areas of Gaza.
The court has ordered Israel to immediately stop its military offensive in Rafah, a southern Gaza city, but has not mandated a cease-fire for the entire enclave. Israel has not complied with the order and shows no intention of doing so.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized Spain’s commitment to justice, stating, “There should be no doubt that Spain will remain on the right side of history,” following an announcement by his foreign minister.
In addition to Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua, Libya, and the Palestinians are awaiting the International Court of Justice’s approval to join the case.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares cited the ongoing military operation in Gaza as the reason for Spain’s decision, expressing a desire for peace in Gaza and the Middle East.
If granted permission to join the case, Spain would be able to submit written arguments and participate in public hearings. This request marks the latest effort by Sánchez’s left-wing coalition to support peace initiatives in Gaza.
Furthermore, in a coordinated move, Spain, Ireland, and Norway officially recognized a Palestinian state on May 28, followed by Slovenia, another EU member, which also recognized the Palestinian state this week.
