Grassroots diplomats forge international solidarity for South Africa amidst a lack of diplomacy and accountability from U.S. authorities

Peace activists across the United States are leading a campaign to garner global backing for South Africa’s genocide charge against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). CODEPINK, World Beyond War, and RootsAction are at the forefront of this effort, seeking to encourage nations to submit a “Declaration of Intervention” in support of South Africa’s case. The focus of the campaign is to hold Israel accountable for alleged genocide in Gaza and bring an end to the suffering of the imprisoned population. Delegations from major cities have engaged with U.N. missions, embassies, and consulates worldwide, urging countries to invoke the Genocide Convention at the United Nations’ judicial arm.

The campaign, initiated two weeks ago, called upon people to participate in a petition and letter-writing drive, urging countries to invoke the genocide convention and charge Israel with genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The response has been significant, with over 30,000 signatures on the petition and 118,290 letters sent to various countries supporting the cause.

“Grassroots diplomats” from across the nation are leading these efforts, expressing frustration with officially appointed U.S. diplomats who continue to back Israel’s actions in Gaza. Despite the opposition from a majority of people in the U.S. and globally who advocate for a ceasefire and an end to the violence, the official stance remains unchanged.