South Africa has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s recent attack on Syria, describing it as a blatant violation of international law. In a statement released over the weekend, the South African government condemned the airstrike on November 14, 2024, which targeted the Damascus suburb of Mazzeh, near the South African Embassy, other diplomatic missions, and United Nations offices. Pretoria emphasized that the attack disregarded Syria’s sovereignty and international norms.
The South African Foreign Ministry stated that Israel’s ongoing military actions are destabilizing the region and worsening the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. Over 120 attacks on Syria since October 7, 2023, have only escalated the suffering of civilians.
South Africa called on the United Nations to hold those responsible accountable, in line with the principles outlined in the UN Charter. The country also expressed its condolences to the Syrian government and the people of Syria, particularly the families affected by the violence.
This latest condemnation follows South Africa’s legal action against Israel, having filed a case with the International Court of Justice in December 2023, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.