Colombia officially withdraws from South Africa's ICJ genocide case against Israel

Colombia has officially withdrawn its declaration of intervention in South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the court announced. Colombia's Foreign Ministry confirmed the withdrawal, clarifying it does not alter Colombia's status as a State Party to the Genocide Convention or its international obligations. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar thanked new Colombian President Abelardo De la Espriella for the withdrawal from "South Africa's false and malicious lawsuit against Israel at the ICJ, which was made during the antisemitic Petro era." This decision is part of President De la Espriella's efforts to restore ties with Israel, which include resuming full diplomatic relations, committing to move the Colombian Embassy to Jerusalem, and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. South Africa has not publicly responded, but previously stated such withdrawals would not affect its legal challenge.