Amanze Chinonye
Belgium has filed a declaration of intervention at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case brought by South Africa against Israel over alleged violations of the Genocide Convention in the Gaza Strip.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, the ICJ said Belgium invoked Article 63 of the Court’s Statute, which allows states that are parties to a treaty under interpretation in a case to intervene in the proceedings.
Under this provision, any interpretation adopted by the Court becomes equally binding on the intervening state.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelBelgium said its intervention is based on its status as a party to the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. It argued that the construction of several provisions of the Convention specifically Articles I, II, III, IV, V and VI is in question in the case instituted by South Africa.
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According to the Court, Belgium’s intervention places particular emphasis on Article II of the Convention, which defines genocide, and focuses on the interpretation of the specific intent required to establish the crime, known in international law as dolus specialis or genocidal intent.
In line with Article 83 of the ICJ’s Rules of Court, South Africa and Israel have been invited to submit written observations on Belgium’s declaration of intervention.
South Africa instituted proceedings against Israel on December 29, 2023, alleging breaches of Israel’s obligations under the Genocide Convention in relation to Palestinians in Gaza. Alongside its application, South Africa requested provisional measures to protect the rights of Palestinians pending the Court’s final determination.
The ICJ issued its first order on provisional measures on January 26, 2024, and later indicated additional measures on March 28, 2024. Further provisional measures were reaffirmed and expanded by the Court in an order dated May 24, 2024, following additional requests by South Africa.
Belgium becomes the latest in a growing list of states seeking to participate in the case. Other countries that have filed applications or declarations of intervention under Articles 62 and/or 63 of the ICJ Statute include Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Palestine, Spain, Türkiye, Chile, the Maldives, Bolivia, Ireland, Cuba, Belize, Brazil and the Comoros.
The ICJ, based at the Peace Palace in The Hague, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Its press releases are issued for information purposes and do not constitute official court documents.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
