Cape Town – The ANC has instructed its MPs to support a motion proposed by the EFF to “close” the Israeli embassy in South Africa and temporarily suspend diplomatic relations.
According to Times Live, the ANC argues that the Israeli government’s actions towards Palestinians in Gaza are “genocidal”.
EFF leader Julius Malema is on Thursday, set to table the motion, citing Israeli violations of laws against annexation by invading and building on Palestinian land.
The motion calls for the recognition that peace in the Middle East is hindered as long as Palestinian land is occupied and condemns the killing of civilians, especially women and children, in Gaza.
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The ANC supports the motion and calls for a ceasefire, humanitarian corridors, and the closure of the Israeli embassy until a lasting peace agreement is reached.
The ANC’s 230 MPs, along with the EFF’s 44 MPs, are expected to pass the motion in the National Assembly, but the stance of other political parties remains unclear.
“The African National Congress will agree to a parliamentary motion which calls upon the government to close the Israel Embassy in South Africa and suspend all diplomatic relations with Israel until Israel agrees to a ceasefire,” the ANC said in a statement, according to Reuters.
Ramaphosa reiterated on Wednesday during a state visit to Qatar that South Africa was opposed to Israel’s operation in Gaza, “particularly as it is now targeting hospitals”.
South Africa earlier this month recalled its diplomats from Israel.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
