Mexico has formally requested to join the case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning allegations of genocide in the Gaza Strip. This legal action was initially filed by South Africa last December, two months after the conflict intensified between Israel and the Islamist group Hamas in Palestine. As a member of the Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, Mexico aims to provide its perspective on the interpretation of international law relevant to this case.
León Castellanos Jankiewicz, an International Law specialist at the Asser Institute in The Hague, noted that Mexico’s interest is rooted in its legal obligations under the genocide convention. The López Obrador Government criticized the atrocities against civilians in Palestinian territory while condemning the terrorist attacks that ignited the conflict on October 7. The Mexican authorities reiterated their commitment to a 'comprehensive and definitive solution to the conflict,' advocating for a two-state solution that ensures both Israel's security and the establishment of a viable Palestinian state.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) recently confirmed the discovery of the body of Orión Hernández, a Mexican citizen kidnapped by Hamas in October, and announced plans for repatriation by the week's end. Meanwhile, Ilana Gritzewsky Camhi, another Mexican held by Hamas, was released in November.
Mexico's request for intervention at the ICJ aims to ensure compliance with the Genocide Convention. Following their declaration, Israel and South Africa must submit written positions on Mexico's participation. Nicaragua and Colombia have previously made similar requests, invoking Article 63 of the Genocide Convention, strengthening the likelihood of Mexico's acceptance though the final decision rests with the ICJ.
Libya also requested to join the case under similar arguments as Mexico, with additional interest expressed by Egypt, Maldives, Turkey, Ireland, and Belgium. The Court has already mandated precautionary measures against Israel, directing the immediate suspension of its military offensive in Rafah and maintaining humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip's civilian population.
The situation in Rafah remains dire, following recent bombings by the Israeli Armed Forces resulting in significant casualties. Around one million Palestinians have relocated to Rafah amid ongoing conflict, prompting both the ICJ and Mexico to warn of a potential humanitarian catastrophe.
- The ICJ hearings began in January, with Israel refuting South Africa’s accusations as grossly distorted. Israel asserts its actions are in self-defense against Hamas rather than an intent of genocide. As of April, the court set deadlines for party reports and counter-memorials to be submitted by October 28, 2024, and July 28, 2025, respectively.
- On Monday, the Mexican government condemned Israel's bombing in Rafah and called for an immediate ceasefire to halt the ongoing violence and protect civilians on both sides. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as the ICJ proceedings progress.
