By John Ikani
South African citizens involved in the conflict in Gaza may face legal consequences at home, cautioned the government on Monday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa once again condemned the situation in the Palestinian territory, describing it as ‘genocide.’
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern about reports indicating that some South African nationals have joined the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to participate in the Gaza conflict or are contemplating doing so.
“Such actions could potentially lead to the violation of international law and the commission of additional international crimes, exposing individuals to potential prosecution in South Africa,” stated the ministry.
According to the ministry, South Africans must obtain prior government approval to legally participate in conflicts in Israel.
The ministry added that naturalized citizens face an increased risk of losing their South African nationality for engaging in a war that the country ‘does not support or agree with.’
The Gaza conflict erupted when Hamas, the Islamist rulers of the strip, initiated an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7. An AFP tally, based on official Israeli figures, reports approximately 1,140 casualties, mostly civilians, and 250 abductions.
Israel’s military response, as reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry, has resulted in the deaths of over 19,400 people, predominantly women and children, and widespread destruction.
South Africa has historically been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, often linking it to its own struggle against apartheid. The African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party, has consistently condemned Israel’s response to Hamas attacks, leading to the recall of all diplomats from the country.
During a press conference in Johannesburg on Monday, President Ramaphosa strongly denounced the ‘genocidal onslaught and slaughter of the people of Palestine’ while meeting with representatives from pro-Palestinian groups
