Hague to Issue Interim Decision on South African Genocide Complaint Friday

Now it’s official: the International Court of Justice at the Hague announced this evening (Wednesday) that it will publish its decision regarding the suit filed by South Africa against Israel on the grounds of a “genocide” in Gaza this coming Friday at 14:00 Israel time. The ruling will be read by ICJ President Joan E. Donoghue, at a discussion to be held at the Peace Palace in the Hague.

The court’s announcement comes after it was reported in South Africa that indications were emerging that a decision would be coming this week.

The decision of the court is expected to have consequences for the continued fighting in the Strip.

The court has a number of paths it can take. It can convict Israel of the South African charge of genocide. In such a case it is expected to issue injunctions limiting or ordering the cessation of the war. The injunctions have no influence without the support of organizations like the UN Security Council, but even without agreement, the pressure on states to support a cease fire will significantly increase.

The court can also not convict Israel of “genocide,” leaving it with two tracks: issuing more limited injunctions which won’t stop the fighting but will order the crossings open, aid not being restricted, or something of that nature.

The ideal case for Israel would be no convictions or injunctions.