Nicaragua criticized Germany at the United Nations' highest court on Monday for its assistance to Israel, alleging that providing weapons to Israel while simultaneously aiding Gaza was hypocritical.
Daniel Mueller, a lawyer representing Nicaragua, condemned this dual approach, calling it a feeble excuse that contradicted humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
The case against Germany was brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by Nicaragua, urging the court to impose urgent measures to cease Berlin's support to Israel. Alain Pellet, Nicaragua's legal representative, emphasized Germany's awareness of the potential misuse of arms in committing genocide, reported AFP.
Sebastian Fischer, a spokesperson for the German foreign ministry, refuted Nicaragua's allegations, asserting that Germany had not violated international law. Nicaragua argued that Germany's support to Israel disregarded the suffering in Gaza, presenting a breach of the UN Genocide Convention.
The ICJ was petitioned by Nicaragua to issue provisional measures due to the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the grave consequences for hundreds of thousands of lives. The court's past rulings have been pivotal in conflicts like the one between Israel and Hamas following the October 7 attacks.
Nicaragua requested five provisional measures, including the immediate suspension of military aid to Israel and the reversal of Germany's decision to halt funding to UNRWA. Germany's decision to suspend UNRWA funding was criticized as unjustified and exacerbating the suffering in Gaza.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged Israel to expedite aid delivery to Gaza, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation. The conflict that began with the October 7 attack has resulted in significant casualties and ongoing humanitarian crises, underscoring the urgency of the matter.