China has intervened in South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, aligning Beijing with a growing list of nations backing Pretoria's claims.

South Africa instituted proceedings against Israel on December 29, 2023, alleging violations of the 1948 Genocide Convention amid Israel's military campaign in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that killed about 1,200 people and saw over 250 taken hostage. The ICJ issued provisional measures in January 2024, finding a plausible risk of genocide and ordering Israel to prevent genocidal acts, ensure humanitarian aid, and preserve evidence.

Subsequent orders in March, April, and May 2024 reaffirmed and expanded these measures. South Africa submitted its memorial in October 2024, with Israel filing its counter-memorial by March 2026 after extensions.

Over 30 countries have now filed declarations of intervention under Article 63 of the ICJ Statute, citing their status as parties to the Genocide Convention. Supporters of South Africa include Algeria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Cuba, Egypt, Ireland, Jordan, Mexico, Namibia, the Netherlands, Spain, Turkey, and others. Those opposing include the United States, the United Kingdom, Hungary, Paraguay, and Fiji, with Germany withdrawing its intervention.

China's intervention marks a significant development, as the world's second-largest economy and a permanent UN Security Council member lends weight to the proceedings. Beijing has previously voiced support for Palestinians, praising South Africa's initiative and urging justice at the ICJ. While China maintains diplomatic ties with Israel, its move reflects broader Global South alignment and BRICS solidarity with South Africa.

Israel has consistently rejected the genocide allegations, asserting its actions target Hamas militants responsible for the October 7 atrocities and comply with international law. Jerusalem argues the campaign is self-defense against an existential threat, pointing to Hamas's use of civilian infrastructure and stated intent to destroy Israel. The Israeli military reports over 14,000 militants killed amid operations to dismantle Hamas governance in Gaza.

The Gaza Health Ministry, run by Hamas, claims over 43,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, though figures do not distinguish combatants from civilians. Humanitarian conditions remain dire despite aid efforts, with the ICJ repeatedly calling for unimpeded access.

Recent interventions include Belgium in December 2025, supporting South Africa and the U.S. filing in March 2026 to defend Israel. The case's merits phase continues, with no final ruling expected soon. Observers note the proceedings highlight deepening global divisions over the Israel-Hamas war, now in its third year.