No decision to close Israeli embassy - Lamola
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola has confirmed that the Israeli embassy in Pretoria remains downgraded.
The downgrade is in line with South Africa’s official diplomatic position, which was adopted by Parliament in 2023.
Addressing the National Council of Provinces on Tuesday, Lamola said the downgrade was implemented as a direct response to Israel’s continued occupation of Palestinian territories, a stance that aligns with South Africa’s broader foreign policy principles.
"Consultations have taken place within the relevant government cluster system to prepare a memorandum for submission to Cabinet.
"In accordance with the constitutional principle of the separation of powers, trias politica, the authority to decide on the possible closure of the Israeli embassy in South Africa rests with the Cabinet."
He added that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation would act on Cabinet’s decision once it has concluded its deliberations.
"At this stage, the embassy remains downgraded."
The downgrade was seen as a significant diplomatic step aimed at expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people and registering opposition to what South Africa considers violations of international law by the Israeli government.
While the downgrade has curtailed certain levels of diplomatic engagement, the Israeli embassy in Pretoria continues to function.
South Africa’s foreign policy has historically supported Palestinian statehood, and the ANC has frequently criticised Israel’s military actions and settlement expansions in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
Lamola's comments come at a time of increased international scrutiny over the situation in Gaza, and mounting calls for accountability over civilian casualties and alleged breaches of international humanitarian law.
He added that a two-state solution still remains the best option.
"South Africa's position with regards to the two-state solution is firmly remaining. We continue with that position in the various platforms of the United Nations.
"We continue to argue for a reason for cessation of hostilities, for the Israel Defense Forces to stop its military operation in Gaza and the West Bank. We continue to call for humanitarian access to the people of Gaza and the West Bank.
"We continue to call for an immediate dialogue and cessation of fire that must lead to engagement towards the two-state solution."
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