Statement from South Africa on the Attacks in the Middle East
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Co-operation issued a written statement on the ongoing attacks in the Middle East. The statement emphasised the concerns over the escalation of hostilities in the region. “The South African government is seriously concerned about Israel’s continued military actions against Palestine and Lebanon and Iran’s response on 1 October,” the ministry said .
It also stated that the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination is a prerequisite for lasting peace and security in the region. “South Africa calls on the international community, and in particular the United Nations Security Council, to address the escalating conflict,” the statement said.
The statement also emphasised that it was regrettable that Israel declared UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres‘persona non grata’ and banned him from entering the country. “As long as impunity for illegal acts continues, war and injustice will continue, ” it said.
Pakistan Reacts to Israel’s Actions
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs made a series of statements on the rising tensions in the Middle East. The Ministry stated that Israel is violating international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter, which has led to deep humanitarian crises. The statement said that Israel’s ground attacks on Lebanon have escalated tensions and had negative effects on innocent civilians.
While calling on all parties to step back, it was emphasised that the international community should also take steps to reduce tensions. Pakistan stated that it advocates a two-state solutionas a lasting peace solution. “Pakistan expresses deep concern over the escalating hostilities in the Middle East and urges all parties to prioritise peace. It also reiterates its call on the UN Security Council to promote peace and security in the region, protect Lebanon’s sovereignty and end the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
