KEYWORDS- diplomatic ties, left wing opposition, international law violations,
The national assembly of South Africa has passed a motion, calling on the government to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel and for closing the Israel’s Embassy in Pretoria as tensions arose between both the countries due to Israel’s assault on Gaza.
The lawmakers in South Africa have denounced that killing of defenceless women and children, bombing of hospitals and other forms of assault by Israel are a perpetual breach of international laws and have given rise to violent resistance.
The motion was passed with 248 votes in favour as well as 91 votes in against. It was introduced by economic freedom fighters which is a left wing opposition party in the country and was supported by many parties including the Africa National Congress, but others said that it would limit the role of South Africa in peace process in the future.
Previously, South Africa has referred Israel to the International Criminal Court for investigation for the war crimes and has called on ICC to issue an arrest warrants for all those who have been involved in the international law violations, including the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The South African has also hosted a BRICS virtual summit on Israel-Palestine issue and has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
Israel has also recently recalled its ambassador from Pretoria, ahead of parliamentary vote, for consultation purposes which has further given rise to tensions between South Africa and Israel.
The symbolism of the motion cannot be understated however, the implementation of the motion lies with the decision of South African government.
REFERENCES-
- https://english.news.cn/20231122/028a512567f5408882c9485196c6c483/c.html
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/south-african-lawmakers-vote-to-suspend-diplomatic-ties-with-israel-shut-its-embassy-101700592196252.html
- https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2023/11/359096/south-africa-to-close-israeli-embassy-suspend-diplomatic-ties
WRITTEN BY- SNEHA MADAN, COLLEGE –LLOYD LAW COLLEGE, FIRST SEMESTER LEGAL JOURNALISM INTERN AT LEGAL VIDHIYA.
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