South Africa condemns rising civilian casualties in the Israel-Iran conflict and urges immediate de-escalation and respect for international law. Image: GCIS.
(The Post News)– The South African government has expressed “deep concern” over the intensifying conflict between the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The concern follows several days of escalating hostilities that have claimed numerous civilian and military lives.
The ongoing conflict, which has drawn global attention, is expected to dominate discussions at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, this week. President Cyril Ramaphosa is among the attending leaders as fears mount that the confrontation could spiral into a broader regional war in the Middle East.
Chrispin Phiri, the spokesperson for the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, extended the country’s condolences to the victims in both countries. According to Phiri, SA believes that “under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian infrastructure” cannot be deemed acceptable targets.
Phiri said that South Africa is urging both nations to observe international legal standards and commit to de-escalation. He also noted that SA reaffirms its urgent plea for de-escalation, restraint, and complete compliance with international law by all parties to avoid additional suffering of humanity.
The South African government has described Israel’s strikes on Iranian military areas, nuclear facilities, and civilian infrastructure as deeply concerning. These attacks, conducted on Friday, reportedly marked a significant escalation in the conflict.
In response, Iran launched retaliatory airstrikes late Friday night, with explosions reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Agence France-Presse (AFP) quoted Iranian officials calling the Israeli strikes a “declaration of war”. Former U.S. President Donald Trump responded by warning Iran of “even more brutal” consequences should it refuse to reach a nuclear deal.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) reiterated its dismay at the loss of civilian lives, expressing alarm over reports of casualties among non-combatants alongside military personnel.
As the violence continues to unfold, Pretoria reaffirmed its commitment to peace, dialogue, and adherence to international norms, emphasising the need for urgent diplomatic intervention to prevent further escalation.
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