JOHANNESBURG: Israel has recalled its ambassador to South Africa, Eliav Belotserkovsky, back to Jerusalem for consultations ahead of a parliamentary vote in South Africa to decide the fate of the Israeli embassy.
The move comes as diplomatic relations between the two nations strain over Israel’s actions in Gaza. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has accused Israel of committing war crimes and genocide against innocent Palestinians in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have been killed.
In response to recent statements from South Africa, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the recall of its ambassador, stating, “Following the latest South African statements, the Ambassador of Israel to Pretoria has been recalled to Jerusalem for consultations.”
The parliamentary vote in South Africa, scheduled for Today, will consider a motion to shut down the Israeli embassy and sever all ties with Israel until a ceasefire is implemented in Gaza. The motion, put forward by the leftist opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters, enjoys the support of the ruling African National Congress and other smaller parties.
South Africa Moves ICC Against Israel’s Genocide in Gaza
Last week, South Africa referred Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza to the International Criminal Court for investigation. On Monday, the South African cabinet urged the ICC to issue an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing Israeli leaders of making statements of “genocidal intent.”
South African Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, stated, “Given that much of the global community is witnessing the commission of these crimes in real time, including statements of genocidal intent by many Israeli leaders, we expect that warrants of arrest for these leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, should be issued shortly.”
Earlier this month, South Africa had already recalled its ambassador to Israel and withdrew all diplomatic staff from the country.
Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas conflict is set to be discussed in a virtual meeting of BRICS countries on Tuesday. Leaders of the economic bloc, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to address the escalating situation. The BRICS bloc, formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is a significant player on the global stage.
