Bolivia has officially joined the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), further intensifying its stance on the Gaza conflict. On October 8, Bolivia filed its application to intervene in the case, which accuses Israel of committing “genocidal acts” in violation of the Genocide Convention. Bolivia’s move places it among a growing list of nations involved in this case, including Colombia, Libya, Spain, Mexico, Palestine, Nicaragua, and Turkey.
This legal action follows Bolivia’s decision to sever diplomatic ties with Israel in November last year in response to the Israeli military’s operations in Gaza. At the time, Bolivia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Freddy Mamani, condemned Israel’s actions, describing them as an “aggressive and disproportionate” offensive. The South American country has since pledged humanitarian aid to Gaza, with Minister of the Presidency María Nela Prada announcing these efforts as part of Bolivia’s ongoing commitment to the region.
Earlier this year, the ICJ issued a ruling that called on Israel to take all necessary steps to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza. The court also urged Israel to ensure that United Nations investigators had full access to the region. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the ruling as “outrageous,” and Israel has not complied with the court’s decision.
South Africa, which initiated the case, has repeatedly returned to the ICJ, advocating for emergency measures to address Gaza’s deteriorating humanitarian situation. In late May, South Africa’s legal team requested the court to intervene and halt Israeli military operations in the southern city of Rafah. Despite this plea, Israel has continued its military actions.
While ICJ rulings are legally binding, they are not enforceable, leaving a complex and volatile situation unresolved. Bolivia, in its submission, reiterated its commitment to denouncing genocide, emphasizing its responsibility to intervene in such matters under international law.
The broader conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7 last year, continues to claim thousands of lives. Israel’s retaliatory strikes have targeted Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, though civilians remain heavily affected. The United Nations reports that over 40,000 lives have been lost since the violence erupted.
