Turkiye Seeks to Join South Africa's Genocide Lawsuit Against Israel

Turkiye plans to file a request to join South Africa's genocide lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice. This move follows frequent accusations by Turkish President Erdogan against Israel and the suspension of trade between the two nations. The case could take years to resolve.

Turkiye is preparing to file a request with the United Nations court to join South Africa's genocide lawsuit against Israel, according to a Turkish official.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the declaration of intervention will be submitted at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Known for its vocal criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, Turkiye aims to become the latest nation to participate in the case.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly likened Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler and accused Israel of committing genocide, calling for international punishment.

In May, Turkey suspended trade with Israel, citing its military actions in Gaza. Contrary to Western views labeling Hamas as a terrorist organization, Erdogan has praised the group as a liberation movement.

South Africa initiated the genocide lawsuit late last year, charging Israel with violating the genocide convention through its military activities in Gaza.

Israel staunchly denies these allegations, asserting that its war in Gaza is a defensive response to a Hamas attack on October 7 which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages taken.

Multiple nations, including Nicaragua, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, and Spain, along with Palestinian officials, have also sought participation in the case. The court is still considering their requests.

Admittance to the case would allow these countries to submit written arguments and present at public hearings.

Preliminary hearings in the genocide case have already been conducted, but a final verdict is expected to take years.

Once allies, Turkiye and Israel have had a tumultuous relationship since Erdogan came to power in 2003, with periods of intense friction and brief reconciliation. The latest Gaza conflict has disrupted recent attempts to restore diplomatic ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)