Turkey has announced its intention to file a request with the United Nations court to join South Africa's genocide lawsuit against Israel. The request will be submitted at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Turkey, known for its strong criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, will be the latest nation seeking to participate in the case.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been vocal in his condemnation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, often drawing comparisons to Adolf Hitler and accusing Israel of genocide. Erdogan has called for Israel to be held accountable in international courts and has criticized Western nations for their support of Israel.
In response to Israel's assault on Gaza, Turkey suspended trade with Israel in May. While Western nations have labeled Hamas as a terrorist organization, Erdogan has praised the group as a liberation movement.
South Africa initiated the case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, alleging violations of the genocide convention through military operations in Gaza. Israel has vehemently denied the accusations of genocide, arguing that its actions in Gaza are defensive measures against Hamas militants.
Several other countries and Palestinian officials, including Nicaragua, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, and Spain, have also sought to join the case. The court is yet to make a decision on their requests. If admitted, these countries will have the opportunity to submit written arguments and speak at public hearings.
Preliminary hearings have already taken place in the genocide case against Israel, but a final decision from the court is expected to take several years. The strained relationship between Turkey and Israel, marked by periods of tension and reconciliation since Erdogan came to power in 2003, has been further complicated by the conflict in Gaza, disrupting recent attempts at normalizing ties.
