Media Statement
14 May 2018
South Africa withdraws its Ambassador to Israel following Israel’s deadly attack in the Gaza Strip
The South African government condemns in the strongest terms possible the latest act of violent aggression carried out
by Israeli armed forces along the Gaza border, which has led to the deaths of over 40 civilians. The victims were taking
part in a peaceful protest against the provocative inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem.
This latest attack has resulted in scores of other Palestinian citizens reported injured, and the wanton destruction of
property.
Given the indiscriminate and grave manner of the latest Israeli attack, the South African government has taken a
decision to recall Ambassador Sisa Ngombane with immediate effect until further notice.
As we have stated on previous occasions, South Africa reiterates its view that the Israeli Defence Force must withdraw
from the Gaza Strip and bring to an end the violent and destructive incursions into Palestinian territories. South
Africa maintains further that the violence in the Gaza Strip will stand in the way of rebuilding Palestinian
institutions and infrastructure.
The routine actions of the Israeli armed forces present yet another obstacle to a permanent resolution to the conflict,
which must come in the form of two states, Palestine and Israel, existing side-by-side and in peace.
Like other members of the international community, South Africa is disturbed by the latest deadly aggression and
reiterates calls made by several member states of the United Nations for an independent inquiry into the killings, with
a view to holding to account those who are responsible.