Israel-Palestine Escalation
Israel was hit by an unprecedented rocket attack from the Gaza Strip on October 7, with Hamas movement's troops infiltrating border areas. On October 8, the Israeli government announced that it had invoked Article 40 of the Basic Law, which means the country was officially in a state of war.

South Africa Condemns Escalation of Violence in Middle East, Calls for Ceasefire and Accountability

Tensions between Israel and Lebanon have surged in recent weeks, following increased rocket exchanges between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. The conflict escalated after a series of Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, prompting retaliations. Targeted assassinations of high-profile leaders have further fueled the crisis.
Sputnik
South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) issued a strong statement condemning the recent escalation of violence and extrajudicial killings in the Middle East.
The South African government expressed particular concern over the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and other prominent figures in Lebanon, following a series of indiscriminate attacks that have left hundreds injured and over 720 dead.
DIRCO highlighted the alarming increase in attacks on civilian infrastructure, particularly communication networks and devices used by civilians in Lebanon. The government called these actions "a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian law," extending condolences to the families of the victims.
"We stand in solidarity with the Government of Lebanon during this challenging time and express our support in the aftermath of these ongoing attacks," DIRCO stated.
Furthermore, South Africa urged the global community to hold those responsible for the violence accountable, advocating for "an international, transparent investigation" into the killings. It also called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent a wider regional conflict, which could have disastrous consequences for all involved nations.
"We call for the perpetrators of these premeditated crimes to be held accountable," the statement read.
Israel-Palestine Escalation
Over 100 People Killed in Lebanon on Sunday Due to Israeli Strikes: Reports
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said that the number of displaced persons has reached almost one million. Moreover, primary healthcare facilities are shutting down in the hardest-hit areas.
South Africa's position echoes the sentiments of other nations and international bodies, who have called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilian lives amid ongoing military operations.