Turkey has officially filed a request with the United Nations court to join South Africa's lawsuit against Israel, accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza, announced Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The move comes as Turkey becomes the latest nation to join the case, following Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua, Libya, and Palestinian officials. These countries and entities are seeking to participate in the International Court of Justice's proceedings in The Hague, with the court yet to make a decision on their requests, as reported by the AP.

Accompanied by a delegation of Turkish legislators, Turkey's ambassador to the Netherlands submitted the declaration of intervention to the International Court of Justice. Turkey, known for being one of the fiercest critics of Israel's actions in Gaza, expressed its determination to see justice served. In a statement penned by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, he emphasized the urgency of halting what he referred to as "genocide" and called upon the international community to pressure Israel and its supporters to end the violence.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has consistently accused Israel of genocide and rallied for its punishment in international courts. He has also criticized Western nations for their support of Israel, while simultaneously commending the group Hamas as a liberation movement. In May, Turkey suspended trade with Israel in response to its assault on Gaza.

South Africa initiated the case against Israel in late 2020, bringing the matter before the International Court of Justice, alleging that Israel violated the genocide convention in Gaza. If admitted to the case, countries and entities joining the lawsuit would be granted the opportunity to submit written statements and speak during public hearings. Preliminary hearings have already taken place, but the court is expected to take several years to reach a final decision.

Speaking on behalf of the Turkish Foreign Ministry, spokesperson Oncu Keceli emphasized the significance of holding Israel accountable for its actions and maintained that no country should be above international law. Keceli also called for the immediate implementation of precautionary measures, including a cessation of the military offensive in Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid.

The international community closely awaits the decision of the International Court of Justice regarding the participation of Turkey and other entities in the lawsuit, as it continues to seek justice and bring attention to the alleged crimes committed in Gaza.