U.N. Court Hears Case Accusing Germany of Facilitating Israel’s Gaza Conflict

In a significant development, the United Nations’ top court has commenced preliminary hearings on April 8 in a case brought forward by Nicaragua against Germany. The case seeks to halt German military and other aid to Israel, alleging that such support enables acts of genocide and violations of international humanitarian law during the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Nicaragua argues that Germany’s political, financial, and military assistance to Israel contributes to the commission of genocide, breaching its obligations to prevent such atrocities.

While Israel denies genocidal acts and asserts self-defense, Germany rejects Nicaragua’s case, maintaining that it hasn’t violated international law. The court’s decision on preliminary measures is anticipated in the coming weeks, with Nicaragua’s case likely to extend over several years. This hearing coincides with heightened calls to cease arms supplies to Israel amid the ongoing Gaza offensive, with the U.N. urging countries to halt weapon sales and hundreds of British jurists advocating for arms suspension.