By Mpho Moloi
South Africa has strongly condemned Israel’s recent military actions across the Middle East, particularly the attacks on Gaza, Lebanon, and now Iran. Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), expressed that these actions mark a grave violation of international law and sovereignty. “South Africa remains steadfast in its call for an immediate ceasefire,” Phiri stated, urging for humanitarian aid access and denouncing what has been described as “collective punishment” against Palestinian civilians.
The situation in Gaza has grown increasingly dire as Israeli forces target critical infrastructure, with recent strikes severely damaging Kamal Adwan Hospital in Northern Gaza. South Africa, along with other nations, has voiced particular concern about the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region. Minister Ronald Lamola underscored that “urgent humanitarian support for civilians in Gaza” is essential, further calling for an end to the intense airstrikes and ground operations ongoing in the North Gaza governorate.
In Lebanon, South Africa condemned Israel’s incursions, including strikes on densely populated areas and breaches into the “Blue Line” region, where over 10,000 UN peacekeepers are stationed. These attacks have led to civilian casualties and are escalating tensions in the region, with South Africa joining international calls for the protection of peacekeeping forces and adherence to humanitarian law.
In response to Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian territory, South Africa has reiterated its stance against any actions that may exacerbate regional instability. DIRCO called the attack an “unacceptable violation of Iran’s sovereignty” and cautioned that such actions could further strain international peace. These statements align with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent appeals for international intervention. Speaking in Johannesburg, Ramaphosa urged world leaders to pressure Israel to halt its offensive actions and open avenues for humanitarian relief. He emphasized that South Africa’s commitment to Palestinian support extends to legal channels, with South Africa filing complaints at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide under the 1948 Genocide Convention.
The broader international community has echoed South Africa’s call for a peaceful resolution, with BRICS countries and several European nations, among others, signing a letter supporting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in his mediation efforts. Many worry that the ongoing violence could destabilize the region further, with South Africa warning that continuous conflict risks a “major military conflagration,” threatening both regional and global stability.
In a final appeal, South Africa urged the United Nations and other countries to enforce UNSC Resolution 2735 (2024) to secure a ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza. The South African government remains adamant in its stance, hoping that a diplomatic approach can avert further escalation and lay the groundwork for a long-term peace in the Middle East.
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