South Africa severs diplomatic relations with Israel

Pretoria November 16, 2023 (QJ) -South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to take action against Israel. The South African Parliament, on Thursday, passed a resolution severing diplomatic relations with Israel.

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) and opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), support the efforts to sever ties with Israel.

South Africa is among African countries that strongly criticize Israel’s role in Gaza. The country has also recalled its ambassador from Tel Aviv. In recent weeks, cities in South Africa have witnessed protests in solidarity with Palestine.

Israel had previously enjoyed a close relationship with the former apartheid government of South Africa.