Ankara: Two years after Israel's severe military actions on the Gaza Strip, international legal proceedings are steadily advancing against the nation, marking a significant push toward accountability.
According to Anadolu Agency, over the past two years, Israeli forces have been responsible for the deaths of nearly 67,200 Palestinians in Gaza, the majority being women and children, with over 170,000 individuals wounded, as reported by Palestinian authorities. A United Nations independent commission of inquiry recently concluded that Israel's actions amount to genocide, exacerbated by a blockade-induced famine that has claimed over 460 lives, including more than 150 children.
At The Hague, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) are processing cases accusing Israel of genocide and war crimes. These efforts are described as some of the most significant accountability pursuits in recent decades. In December 2023, South Africa launched significant proceedings against Israel at the ICJ for alleged violations of the 1948 Genocide Convention, supported by numerous countries through declarations of intervention.
The ICJ has issued provisional measures directing Israel to prevent genocide, cease military operations, and allow humanitarian access. Despite these orders, Israel has reportedly ignored the rulings, intensifying its actions in Gaza.
Gerhard Kemp, a criminal law professor, suggests that renewed ICJ intervention is necessary due to the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. South Africa and its Global South allies have formed The Hague Group of States to apply diplomatic, political, and economic pressure on Israel, aiming to disrupt weapon supplies and end the genocide.
The timeline for a verdict remains uncertain, with Israel expected to respond to South Africa's legal brief by January 2026. Legal experts suggest the ICJ could issue a judgment by late 2026 or early 2027, though historical cases indicate a potentially longer timeline.
Parallel to the ICJ proceedings, the ICC is advancing its investigation, with arrest warrants issued for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for alleged crimes against humanity. However, enforcement challenges persist, especially with some Western countries displaying ambivalence and the US openly opposing the ICC's investigation, including imposing sanctions on court officials.
The international legal battle continues, with South Africa presenting compelling evidence of Israel's intent to destroy the Palestinian people in Gaza, a critical component in proving genocide under international law.