Nicaragua accuses Germany at ICJ over Gaza genocide

Nicaragua accused Germany at the International Court of Justice on Tuesday of “multiple violations of international law” as it pressed its case alleging that Berlin is complicit in what it describes as genocide in Gaza.

Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez, Nicaragua's ambassador, told the court in The Hague that Nicaragua was invoking Germany's responsibility over alleged violations linked to genocide and international humanitarian law. He said the claims involved serious breaches of obligations under general international law.

Nicaragua brought the case against Germany in 2024, accusing Berlin of breaching the 1948 UN Genocide Convention through its support for Israel, including arms shipments.

Germany is asking the court to throw out the case completely. It argues that judges do not have jurisdiction and that Nicaragua's case does not stand up.

On Monday, Germany's representative Julia Monar told the court that Germany has “unwavering support for the existence and security of the State of Israel”, but said Germany was also one of the world's largest bilateral donors to the Palestinian Territories. She said all German exports of military technology and equipment to Israel were subject to strict licensing requirements and said Nicaragua's statements created an “inaccurate and distorted picture”.

The ICJ has already rejected Nicaragua's request for emergency measures against Germany, including a halt to arms exports to Israel. The wider case continues while the court considers Germany's preliminary objections.

The court could side with Germany and dismiss the case, or reject Berlin's objections and allow the case to be considered in more detail on its merits. Rulings in such preliminary cases take about six months on average.

The case is separate from another ICJ case in which South Africa accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza, an accusation Israel denies. ICJ rulings are binding, but the court has no power to enforce them.