The South African Parliament passed on Tuesday November 21, 2023, a motion in favor of closing the Israeli embassy in Pretoria and suspending diplomatic relations with the country in conflict with Palestine.
The motion introduced by Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been passed with 248 votes in favour and 91 votes against.
This decision, supported by the African National Congress (ANC), received massive support in the vote, despite opposition from parties like the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP). ANC leader Pemmy Majodina stated that the closure of the Israeli embassy should persist until a ceasefire is accepted.
Debates during the discussions centered on the nature of the conflict, with some asserting that it is not a religious war. In recent days, South Africa has recalled its diplomats from Tel Aviv, expressing concern over the ongoing attacks on Gaza.
In response to the South African Parliament’s decision, Israel has announced the recall of its ambassador to South Africa for consultations.
South African leaders refers to the situation as a “genocide” in the eyes of the international community, condemning an unacceptable new holocaust. The President Cyril Ramaphosa has asserted that his country contends Israel is engaged in war crimes and genocide within the besieged Gaza Strip.
Palestinian authorities claim over 14,100 casualties resulting from Israel’s air and ground assault since October 7. The conflict erupted when the Palestinian armed group Hamas initiated a surprise attack on southern Israel, allegedly causing about 1,200 casualties according to Israeli authorities.
