South African lawmakers have voted in favour of suspending diplomatic relations with Israel. This decision includes the closure of the Israeli embassy in Pretoria.
The resolution comes amid ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas, in Gaza.
As per Reuters, the implementation of this resolution depends on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stated that President Ramaphosa recognises the importance of parliamentary guidance on diplomatic relations, particularly regarding the Israeli embassy.
‘The president and cabinet are engaged over the matter, which remains the responsibility of the national executive,’ Magwenya said.
Also read: Parliament to debate closure of Israeli embassy in SA
Ramaphosa and senior foreign ministry officials have openly criticised Israel’s military actions in Gaza. They have urged the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel for potential war crimes.
Ahead of the vote, Israel’s ambassador in Pretoria was recalled to Tel Aviv for consultations.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party initiated the parliamentary resolution, receiving support from the ruling African National Congress (ANC).
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Pemmy Majodina, the ANC’s chief whip, modified the resolution to demand the closure of the embassy and the suspension of diplomatic relations ‘until a ceasefire is agreed to by Israel and Israel commits to binding United Nations-facilitated negotiations whose outcome must be a just, sustainable and lasting peace.’
South Africa has historically supported Palestinian statehood, comparing their struggles to those faced during apartheid, which Israel strongly renounced.
The Israeli embassy had not responded to Reuters‘ request for comments at the time of publication.
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