/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/KRSFLVR7QVFWXNWVOZQDNOL3YQ.jpg "Brazil and Colombia promote from Latin America South Africa’s complaint against Israel for genocide in Gaza")
The Governments of Brazil and Colombia have officially expressed their support for a genocide complaint filed by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice. This comes as the highest UN court is set to analyze South Africa’s request for immediate precautionary measures, including a cessation of hostilities, in response to the ongoing Gaza war.
Brazil’s President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, stated that the country supports South Africa’s initiative due to the “flagrant violations of international humanitarian law.” Similarly, Colombia’s Foreign Ministry maintains that Israel’s actions and measures constitute acts of genocide, and has urged the court to rule quickly and stop the violence in Gaza and the occupied territories.
In response to the Israeli offensive, support for South Africa’s complaint has been growing internationally. Jordan, Turkey, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the Maldives, as well as the Arab League and the organization of Islamic Countries, have all backed the initiative. Latin American countries including Bolivia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba have also joined, with Chile and Djibouti also intending to file complaints before international courts.
The International Court of Justice will now consider ordering precautionary measures to stop the alleged genocide, though it may take years for the case to be fully addressed. The court does not have coercive means to ensure its sentences are carried out.
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict, the International Court of Justice’s hearings in The Hague will continue to play a crucial role in addressing the issue. President Gustavo Petro of Colombia has been particularly vocal in his support for the Palestinian cause, following the escalation of the conflict and expressing the urgent need to put an end to the bloodbath in Gaza. Subscribe to the EL PAÍS América newsletter to stay updated on current events in the region.