As the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel intensifies by the hour and global markets weaken, in part, due to fears of a destabilising regional war, the South African government’s continued support for rogue states and recognised terrorist groups places it on the wrong side of history once again.
Iran has signalled its intent to strike Israel, directly and through proxy groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon or the Houthis in Yemen as well as Palestinian proxies in the West Bank. This apparent retaliation follows the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was responsible for numerous civilian deaths and acts of terror.
While South Africa has remained silent on the brewing tensions, its recent actions have increasingly aligned it against the West and with the Iranian government and its violent proxies.
Rolene Marks, spokesperson for the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF), stated, “At this critical juncture in global politics, South Africa has again unfortunately positioned itself on the wrong side of the moral divide. Our government aligns with oppressive regimes and consistently seeks to legitimise terrorist organisations such as Hamas. This radical foreign policy stance does not reflect the values of the South African people.”
Iran has repeatedly declared its intention to destroy Israel, the world’s only Jewish state. This existential threat leaves Israel no choice but to defend itself.
The South African government’s allegiance to terrorist entities and rogue nations not only contradicts ethical standards, but also jeopardises crucial economic ties with key trading partners in the US and Europe.
As the US provides military support to Israel in preparation for potential conflict, South Africa’s backing of Iran and terrorist groups is both morally indefensible and economically reckless.
The South African government’s actions have contributed to a political climate that emboldens genocidal regimes against the world’s only Jewish state. Should the conflict escalate, South Africa’s role in delegitimising Israel’s right to self-defence through unfounded genocide accusations at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will bear partial responsibility.
The tensions in the Middle East follow a recent Hezbollah rocket attack that tragically killed 12 children playing football in Israel’s Golan Heights on July 27.
The SAZF is deeply troubled by the South African government’s recent statement expressing “heartfelt condolences” to the Palestinian people following Haniyeh’s death. This response starkly contrasts with their silence after Hezbollah’s attack on innocent children, or whenever Israelis are under threat.
We urge the government to adopt a more balanced and principled foreign policy stance that recognises Israel’s right to self-defence. Israel does not seek broader conflict, and the SAZF hopes for a peaceful resolution that spares the region from further bloodshed.
PHOTO: ANC / BBC
