Time for South Africa to re-establish diplomatic ties with Israel

Image: DIRCO

It is time for South Africa to demonstrate its sincere commitment to facilitating lasting peace in the Middle East, which can only be achieved through normalising diplomatic relations with Israel.

In light of the peace agreement, which entails a ceasefire, the release of hostages and prisoners of war, and plans to rebuild Gaza, South Africa should become actively involved in the process as it presents a unique opportunity.

An essential starting point for South Africa would be to normalise relations with Israel by establishing an embassy to represent the country.

The absence of an ambassador, since the country's withdrawal in 2023, demonstrates an utter lack of diplomatic commitment to assist in resolving the conflict.

Last year, the United States (US) sharply criticised South Africa for, among other things, its decision to bring Israel before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of allegedly committing genocide in Gaza.

If South Africa were to re-establish diplomatic ties with Israel, it would send a positive message to the US – which is critical at this stage of its negotiations to normalise trade relations between the two countries.

The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus), therefore, also welcomes the South African government’s response to the announcement of the peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, which, according to its statement, paves the way for lasting peace.