South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vehemently condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, calling for an immediate end to what he termed a "barbaric war."
During a Friday address to the Algerian parliament, Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa's unwavering support for Palestinian self-determination, highlighting the suffering inflicted upon Gaza's civilian population.
"As nations, we know too well the pain of having our lands colonized and our people oppressed. South Africa and Algeria stand firm in our support for the Palestinian people’s quest for self-determination. Israel’s barbaric war on the people of Gaza must end," the president said.
Ramaphosa highlighted the suffering inflicted upon Gaza's civilian population, saying, "The killing of women, children, and non-combatants; the bombardment of homes, schools, and hospitals; and the denial of humanitarian aid is a stain on the conscience of the world."
"We cannot turn a blind eye to this injustice," he added. "We have a responsibility to stop this genocide. Israel must be held accountable for its crimes against the people of Gaza."
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The case, which has garnered support from several nations including Turkey, Nicaragua, Palestine, Spain, Mexico, Libya, and Colombia, accuses Israel of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention.
In November this year, the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant.