South Africa Condemns Assassination of Hamas Leader, Calls for Investigation

South Africa's government condemned the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, suggesting it could further destabilize the Middle East. The attack, believed to be carried out by Israel, has sparked calls for an investigation. South Africa maintains its support for Palestinians, urging peace and stability in the region.

South Africa's government on Thursday condemned the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, warning that it could plunge the Middle East into deeper instability.

The attack in Tehran, Iran's capital, is widely believed to have been conducted by Israel, though its government has yet to comment. South Africa, consistently vocal against Israel's military actions in Gaza, likens the Palestinian plight to the struggles of its own Black population during apartheid, a comparison Israel refutes. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation expressed concerns about the escalation of violence in the region and called for an investigation into Haniyeh's death.

Offering condolences to Haniyeh's family, the department highlighted his role in diplomatic talks aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict. South Africa's unwavering support for Palestinian statehood was also demonstrated when it pursued legal action against Israel for alleged genocide, a claim Israel denies.

Despite discomfort among some Western allies, South Africa insists that its stance is pro-Palestinian, not pro-Hamas. Ronald Lamola, the new foreign minister, emphasized that Haniyeh's assassination violates international law and undermines peace efforts in the Middle East.

"It is crucial that the perpetrators of such actions must be brought to justice," Lamola stated.

(With inputs from agencies.)