Chilean President Gabriel Boric has announced that Chile will be joining South Africa in supporting a case against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Boric made this statement during a message to his country’s Congress, stating that Chile would support South Africa’s request within the framework of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
The ICJ was previously seized by South Africa at the end of December, resulting in an order for Israel to take action to prevent genocide and allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. However, despite these orders, the court has not yet made a ruling on the full merits of the case against Israel for violating the UN Genocide Convention.
President Boric highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for a strong response from the international community. The Chilean government had previously condemned an Israeli attack on a camp for displaced people in Rafah, which resulted in significant casualties. Boric has consistently criticized the war in Gaza, deeming it unjustifiable and unacceptable.
The conflict in Gaza began with an attack by Hamas commandos on southern Israel, resulting in numerous casualties. In response, Israel launched a military campaign to combat Hamas, which it considers a terrorist organization. The ensuing conflict has had devastating consequences for civilians in Gaza, with thousands of people killed or injured.
By supporting South Africa in its case against Israel, Chile is taking a stance in favor of justice and accountability for the ongoing violence in the region. The situation remains a point of contention and concern for many countries around the world who are calling for a peaceful resolution to this tragic conflict.
