Ramaphosa calls Middle East escalation 'calamitous', urges immediate ceasefire
President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the escalating conflict in the Middle East as “calamitous” and warned that it could spiral far beyond the region, posing a serious threat to global stability.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Africa Energy Indaba, in Cape Town Ramaphosa addressed growing tensions involving Iran and reports of drone strikes intercepted in parts of the United Arab Emirates.
He said the developments represent one of the most dangerous geopolitical moments in recent years.
"What is happening in the Middle East is calamitous. It is the most dangerous development that could go way beyond the Middle East as well, because it now engulfs many more countries than just the two countries or three countries. So it's very concerning, the world is facing a very dangerous period at the moment."
The President confirmed that he has engaged with several heads of state in the region to express South Africa’s solidarity and concern, while also requesting that the safety of South African citizens living and working in affected countries be safeguarded.
Call for ceasefire
Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s official call for an immediate ceasefire, stressing that dialogue remains the only viable path to ending the violence.
"We have issued a clear statement that we want a ceasefire. We want this madness to come to an end. Dialogue is always the best way of ending conflict and ending war, and we want this war to come to an end immediately. We're losing too many lives, and unnecessarily so."
He indicated that South Africa is prepared to contribute to mediation efforts should an opportunity arise, particularly within the framework of the United Nations.
"South Africa is always ready to play a contributing role, either in mediation or whatever. If a gap opens or if we are asked, we always live up to obligations. We're a global citizen and we therefore can play whatever role the UN would like us to play."
Trade and maritime stability
Amid concerns about instability around key shipping corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz, Ramaphosa said South Africa’s ports and maritime routes remain stable and open.
He noted that periods of global turmoil often redirect shipping traffic towards southern routes, positioning South Africa as a reliable alternative passage.
"Whenever there's turmoil around the world, we always find that we in the South become a safe passage. And we will give safe passage for goods and for ships that can come via our shores. So we are safe and solid when it comes to that."
As tensions continue to mount, Ramaphosa stressed that the priority must be to prevent further loss of life and avoid a broader international crisis.
"We want this war to come to an end immediately," he said.
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