Israel’s Foreign Ministry recalls its Ambassador to SA
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Israel’s Foreign Ministry has recalled its Ambassador to South Africa for consultations following what it referred to as the “latest statements from South Africa”.
This comes just over a week after Ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky was demarched or formally reprimanded by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation over conduct described by DIRCO as unfortunate in relation to the unfolding war between Israel and Hamas.
Africa 4 Palestine on reports that Israeli authorities have recalled their ambassador in SA Eliav Belotsercovsky for consultations. #sabcnews #Israel #Gaza pic.twitter.com/guq0DSAUiW
— KhayelihleKhumalo-James Jnr (@KhayaJames) November 20, 2023
DIRCO’s Clayson Monyele explained that just like South Africa took a decision to recall its diplomats, so too it was Israel’s sovereign right to do the same.
The decision by Israel’s Foreign Ministry comes in the context of strained relations with South Africa whose senior government officials have called Israel’s military actions in Gaza genocide and referred the matter to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated that while they did not condone the actions of Hamas when the group launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7th, he criticised Israel’s response in Gaza where quote “people were dying like flies”.
The African National Congress (ANC) last week also indicated support for a parliamentary motion calling for the Israeli Embassy in Pretoria to be closed.
South Africa also earlier recalled is diplomatic staff from Israel in protest.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry recalls its Ambassador to South Africa