Chilean President Gabriel Boric has recently announced that Chile will be joining South Africa in supporting a case against Israel before the International Court of Justice. During a message to his country’s Congress, Boric stated that Chile would support South Africa’s request within the framework of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
Chile 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.
The International Court of Justice 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. More recently, the ICJ ordered Israel to immediately cease its military offensive in Rafah. 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. He emphasized that peace must be achieved through diplomatic means rather than through military force or violence. By supporting South Africa in its case against Israel, Chile is taking a stance in favor of justice and accountability for ongoing violence in Gaza.
South Africa filed its case against Israel last year under Article 194-2 (B) of the United Nations Charter and Article 93 (a) of its own Constitution. It alleges that Israel’s actions amount to crimes against humanity committed during its 2008–2009 Operation Cast Lead campaign and subsequent attacks on Gaza.
In conclusion, President Boric’s decision to join South Africa’s case against Israel highlights Chile’s commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace and justice globally. As tensions continue to rise between Palestine and Israel, it remains crucial that countries take action to hold those responsible accountable for their actions and work towards finding peaceful resolutions to these conflicts.
