In response to rising tensions over the Israeli war on Gaza, Israel has decided to recall its ambassador to South Africa, Eliav Belotserkovsky, for consultations in Jerusalem. This move precedes a crucial parliamentary vote in South Africa to determine the fate of the Israeli embassy. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly accused Israel of committing war crimes and genocide in Gaza, contributing to the strained diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The recall of the Israeli ambassador comes as South Africa’s parliament is set to vote on a motion proposing the closure of the Israeli embassy and the severing of all ties with Israel until a ceasefire is implemented in Gaza. The motion, backed by the ruling African National Congress and other parties, has been put forth by the Economic Freedom Fighters, a leftist opposition party. This parliamentary action follows South Africa’s recent referral of what it describes as Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza to the International Criminal Court, with the country’s cabinet calling for the ICC to issue an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The conflict’s repercussions extend beyond the diplomatic realm, as leaders of BRICS countries are scheduled to discuss the Israel-Hamas war in a virtual meeting. This economic bloc, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has seen the inclusion of South Africa in 2010. The meeting will include leaders such as Ramaphosa, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The ongoing conflict began with surprise attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel in October, leading to a retaliatory Israeli offensive in Gaza and resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Quest: Ezimekume Dominion.