By: Natasha Archary
Israel has recalled its ambassador to South Africa, Eliav Belotserkovsky following the statements made by President Cyril Ramaphosa and mounting pressure to shut down the Israeli embassy in the country.
On Monday, Israel’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lior Haiat said the decision to recall Belotserkovsky came after South Africa’s criticism of Israel with regards to the killing of innocent Palestinian civilians and children.
Earlier this month, South Africa recalled its diplomats to Israel owing to the Israeli government’s refusal to respect international law and the UN resolutions with impunity.
Israel recalled its ambassador ahead of the Parliament vote to shut down the Israeli embassy, which was motioned for by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
In response, the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) said it was a great pity that it has come to this.
“It is a great pity that the hostility towards the Israeli ambassador in South Africa has resulted in the withdrawal of the Israeli ambassador back to Jerusalem for consultations.
This takes place against the background of a sustained campaign of demonisation and bullying of the Israeli ambassador by the African National Congress (ANC), the South African ruling party, and the South African government in a way that was unconducive to dialogue and engagement.
We hope and trust that both the Israeli ambassador to South Africa, and the South African ambassador to Israel will return to these respective countries on conclusion of these consultations, in a way that will contribute to continued dialogue and engagement in the interests of peace.”
SAJBD National Chairperson Karen Milner
Meanwhile, the South African human rights NGO Africa4Palestine welcomes the recall of Israel’s Ambassador from South Africa.
“This marks a crucial step towards holding Apartheid Israel accountable for its violations of international law. People and countries across the globe are making it clear: no normal relations with an abnormal state.
Africa4Palestine salutes the hundreds of thousands of South Africans who have taken to the streets, to social media and other platforms in recent weeks supporting our government as well as calling for further and firmer action to be taken against Israel for its recent attacks on the Palestinian people, as well as for its ongoing Apartheid policies and practices.”
Africa4Palestine Tisetso Magama
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