Maldives Intervenes in Gaza Genocide Case at International Court of Justice

Maldives has filed a declaration of intervention at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip, a case initiated by South Africa against Israel. This move underscores the Maldives’ ongoing commitment to upholding international law and standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Attorney General Ahmed Usham, acting as the Agent of the Republic of Maldives, submitted the declaration today under Article 63(2) of the ICJ Statute. The case, initially filed by South Africa on December 29, 2023, alleges that Israel’s actions in Gaza have violated the 1948 Genocide Convention. Specifically, South Africa claims that Israel has committed acts of genocide against the Palestinian people.

The Maldives' intervention focuses on the proper interpretation of key provisions of the Genocide Convention, including Articles I, III, IV, and VI, which address the incitement and punishment of genocide. Additionally, the Maldives provided its stance on the interpretation of Articles II and IX, which deal with the definition and accountability of genocidal acts.

While the intervention is primarily concerned with the legal construction of these provisions, the Government of Maldives continues to condemn Israel’s actions on broader international platforms. The Maldives has consistently labeled Israel's actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as violations of international law amounting to genocide and apartheid. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, in his address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, emphasized, “The ongoing massacre – the genocide – by Israel in Gaza is a travesty of justice and the international system. Israel must be held accountable for these acts of terrorism and violations of international law.”

The Maldives has called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and continues to express its unwavering support for the Palestinian people. The Maldives advocates for the establishment of a sovereign and independent Palestinian state, based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

This intervention at the ICJ further solidifies the Maldives’ position as a defender of human rights and international justice, standing with Palestine in its pursuit of peace, dignity, and statehood.