Israel has filed its delayed response in South Africa’s genocide case at the International Court of Justice, marking a fresh step in one of the most closely watched legal battles linked to the war in Gaza.

According to Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Chrispin Phiri, Israel submitted its response on 12 March 2026. That was more than seven months after the court’s original deadline of 28 July 2025.

The filing responds to South Africa’s memorial, which was lodged on 28 October 2024. The ICJ had granted Israel two extensions before the submission was finally made.

Pretoria Weighs its Next Move

Phiri said South Africa will now study Israel’s response before deciding whether to ask the court for permission to file further written submissions or move straight to oral hearings.

He said that while the legal process continues, conditions in Gaza remain severe. Phiri described ongoing Israeli strikes, heavy loss of life, damage to infrastructure and worsening living conditions for Palestinians in the territory.

That keeps the case politically and morally charged for South Africa, which has framed its action as part of a wider defence of international law.

Ramaphosa Backs the Case

Ramaphosa backs the case

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the Gaza crisis is a test of global values and the strength of multilateral institutions.

He said countries must defend international law and uphold the role of the United Nations and dispute mechanisms such as the ICJ. Ramaphosa added that South Africa remains committed to helping fulfil the promises of the Genocide Convention and the UN Charter.

South Africa first filed its 84-page application at the ICJ on 29 December 2023, asking the court to find Israel guilty of genocide and order an immediate halt to its military assault in Gaza.

More Countries Join Proceedings

The case has now drawn added international backing. The Netherlands and Iceland filed declarations of intervention on 11 March under Article 63 of the ICJ statute, joining the proceedings.

South Africa has already approached the court four times for interim measures. Three binding orders have been granted, but Pretoria argues these have not stopped the attacks or ensured enough humanitarian aid reaches Gaza.

The latest filing from Israel does not end the matter. It opens the door to the next phase, with South Africa now deciding how hard it wants to press its case in court.