President Higgins discusses ICJ case against Israel with South African president

Earlier this week, President Higgins released a strong statement condemning the ongoing war in Gaza, saying that countries who are blocking funding from a key aid agency must “take account of children dying from malnutrition” in the enclave. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

President Michael D Higgins and South African president Cyril Ramaphosa have discussed the country’s ongoing case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

In a statement this evening, it was confirmed that the two presidents discussed the ongoing war in Gaza in a phonecall, with the South African genocide case against Israel being noted in the conversation.

The case saw the ICJ order Israel to take measures to prevent and punish any direct incitement of genocide in its war on Gaza. However, it did stop short in calling for a ceasefire.

In the aftermath, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs have been preparing legal advice to examine Ireland joining the case against Israel.

“President Higgins further noted the strong statement made by the Attorney General on behalf of Ireland on February 22 in the separate ICJ case regarding the legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem,” a statement from Aras an Uachtaráin said.

“President Ramaphosa welcomed the efforts being made by Ireland in its discussions with other countries regarding the situation in Gaza.” 

During the call, Mr Ramaphosa wished Mr Higgins well following his recent stay in hospital, while also thanking him for the solidarity Ireland has shown with South Africa.

Alongside the ongoing war in Gaza, the two heads of state discussed food security around the world and Mr Ramaphosa expressed optimism that there would be more cooperation between Ireland and South Africa in education, science and technology.

“The Presidents also placed a strong emphasis on equality in civil society, including the importance of LGBTQI+ issues,” the statement read.

Earlier this week, President Higgins released a strong statement condemning the ongoing war in Gaza, saying that countries who are blocking funding from a key aid agency must “take account of children dying from malnutrition” in the enclave.