Cairo, Egypt – Pressure is mounting on Israel as evidence mounts that puts it in the international dock. This comes after the UN Independent Commission of Inquiry confirmed that what is happening in Gaza amounts to genocide. The commission relied on thousands of documents and testimonies. Meanwhile, South Africa continues its case before the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention.
Two parallel judicial paths
The International Criminal Court (ICC): The Court has jurisdiction to prosecute individuals responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. It has already issued arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of murder, starvation, and persecution. The “genocide” case remains under investigation.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ): It hears disputes between states and is currently considering the case filed by South Africa. It has ordered Israel to take urgent measures to halt its operations in Rafah and open humanitarian corridors, but it has not effectively halted the war.
Law between justice and politics
Legal experts believe that the Commission of Inquiry’s report constitutes strong evidence before international courts, but it alone is not sufficient to resolve the case. This is because the legal process is by nature long and complex. However, the report’s value lies in its political impact. It places a double responsibility on governments to pressure Israel and hold it accountable.
What awaits Israel
At the International Criminal Court (ICC), the court is still ruling on Israel’s challenge to its jurisdiction, while the execution of arrest warrants remains subject to the cooperation of member states. This is because the court does not try in absentia.
At the International Court of Justice: Israel has until January 2026 to submit its defense. After that, the pleadings phase begins, followed by the hearings. This extends any potential final ruling until 2027.
A test for the international community
Observers confirm that the genocide in Gaza is no longer merely a political title or a legal description, but has become a legal issue before the highest international courts. The question remains: Does the world have the will to translate the evidence into condemnation and accountability, or will Israel remain immune from justice while the Palestinian tragedy continues unabated?
