Latest news with #DepartmentOfInternationalRelations

Zawya
19-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
South Africa condemns Israeli attacks on Damascus and its announcement that it will continue to occupy Southern Syria
South Africa strongly condemns Israel's latest attacks on the Syrian capital Damascus, on 16 July 2025, on the Syrian Ministry of Defence and air strikes near the Presidential Palace, which are a flagrant violation of the country's territorial integrity and international law. Israel's announcement on 17 July 2025, that it will continue to occupy Syrian territory south of the capital Damascus is a serious threat to Syria's sovereignty. Israel's redeployment of forces in the Golan Heights, its occupation of Quneitra near the Golan Heights, and its airstrikes on Suwayda, Daraa, and in the centre of Damascus are a military escalation that threatens security and stability in the country and the region. The United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, has called on Israel to cease any violations of Syria's sovereignty and respect the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. South Africa concurs with the UN Secretary-General, who also condemned Israel's 'escalatory airstrikes' and called for an immediate de-escalation of violence and measures to facilitate humanitarian access. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Zawya
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
South Africa condemns targeting of civilians, urges de-escalation between Iran and Israel
South Africa expresses deep concern regarding the escalation of hostilities between the State of Israel and Islamic Republic of Iran. We extend our deepest condolences to the peoples of both nations suffering from the tragic loss of life. South Africa emphasises that under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be considered legitimate targets. We reiterate our urgent call for de-escalation, restraint, and full compliance with international law by all parties to prevent further human suffering. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Zawya
03-06-2025
- General
- Zawya
South African Government confirms tragic death of citizen in the United States of America (USA), extends condolences
The Government of the Republic of South Africa confirms with deep sadness the tragic passing of a South African citizen in West Virginia, United States of America. The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, has extended condolences to the bereaved family during this profoundly difficult time. Our Embassy in Washington D.C. is providing full consular assistance the family. The circumstances surrounding this tragic death remain under active investigation by the relevant United States authorities. Out of respect for the ongoing investigative process, the sensitivity of the matter, and the privacy of the grieving family, the South African Government will not be providing further detailed commentary at this time. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.