South Africa has announced the recall of all its diplomats from Tel Aviv in response to Israel’s recent intense airstrikes on Gaza, marking one of Israel’s most substantial bombardments since the ongoing conflict began a month ago. The Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City reported approximately 200 casualties.
South Africa, a strong advocate for the Palestinian cause, unequivocally condemned Israel’s actions on Monday. Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor stated during a press conference that the country was withdrawing its diplomats, citing profound concerns about the continued loss of life among children and innocent civilians in Palestinian territories. South Africa views Israel’s response as a form of collective punishment and is urging for a comprehensive cessation of hostilities.
Israel, for its part, claims it is making efforts to minimize civilian casualties and accuses Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, of using non-combatants as human shields.
In a separate incident on October 7, Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the UK, US, and other Western nations, reportedly caused the deaths of over 1,400 people in Israel and took more than 230 hostages, including an as yet unidentified South African national. In response, Israel pledged to dismantle Hamas and conducted multiple airstrikes on Gaza. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 10,000 individuals have lost their lives since the siege commenced.
Lior Haiat, a spokesperson for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responded on a social media platform, stating that South Africa’s decision to recall its diplomatic staff essentially rewarded the Hamas terrorist organization for the events of October 7. Mr. Haiat further called upon South Africa to condemn Hamas, which he likened to ISIS, and to respect Israel’s right to self-defense against a terrorist group that openly calls for the destruction of the State of Israel.
South Africa has consistently supported the Palestinian cause in their ongoing conflict with Israel, often drawing parallels with their own struggle against apartheid. Foreign Minister Pandor described the recall of diplomats as a customary practice and stated that these envoys would provide a comprehensive briefing to the government. Subsequently, the government will assess whether it can continue to offer assistance or maintain a viable diplomatic relationship.
Additionally, South Africa’s cabinet accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including government officials who criticized Israel’s government. The cabinet’s statement asserted that such disparaging comments rendered Ambassador Belotsercovsky’s position increasingly untenable.
Notably, South Africa joins several other countries, including Chad, Chile, and Colombia, in recalling its diplomats from Israel as a protest against the military operations in Gaza.