MPs back proposal urging Bahrain to join South Africa’s ‘genocide’ case against Israel

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

MPs yesterday unanimously approved a proposal urging the government to examine joining South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice over genocide in Gaza.

The request, raised with urgency by MP Abdulhakim Al Sheno and backed by four others, asks the government to look into the steps required for Bahrain to become part of the proceedings, which accuse Israel of breaching international law through its actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The move follows repeated parliamentary expressions of support for Palestine and comes as pressure builds across the Arab and Islamic world for stronger responses to the war.

“This is a matter that concerns every country that values human rights and fairness,” said MP Al Sheno during the session.

The supporting note cited articles from Bahrain’s Constitution, including one that encourages ties with Arab neighbours and another which declares peace a national aim and defending the Arab homeland a duty.

South Africa submitted the case in December, arguing that Israel’s military operations amount to genocide.

Hearings are ongoing at The Hague, with many countries backing the proceedings.

MPs who endorsed the proposal said Bahrain’s involvement would be in line with its past positions in international events, where it has regularly backed causes tied to fairness and justice.

The vote passed without objection. The next step lies with the Cabinet and relevant ministries, who will consider whether and how to proceed.