South Africa has denounced Israel’s recent aggression against Syria, labeling it a violation of international law.
In a statement issued Saturday, Pretoria condemned the November 14 attack on the Damascus suburb of Mazzeh, near diplomatic missions, including South Africa’s embassy and United Nations offices. The Foreign Ministry called the strike a “blatant disregard of Syria’s sovereignty and international legal norms.”
South Africa emphasized that Israel’s continued military actions in Syria destabilize both regional and global peace and security. The ministry noted that since October 7, 2023, Israel has carried out over 120 strikes in Syria, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
“The ongoing aggression worsens an already dire situation, undermining prospects for peace in the Middle East,” the statement read.
Pretoria urged the United Nations to uphold the principles enshrined in its Charter and hold Israel accountable for its actions. It reaffirmed its commitment to international law and its solidarity with the Syrian people.
South Africa extended condolences to the families of those killed in the attacks and reiterated its support for Syria’s sovereignty.
This is not South Africa’s first confrontation with Israel over its military actions. In December 2023, Pretoria filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza.
The condemnation marks another chapter in South Africa’s vocal stance against human rights violations and its call for global accountability.