ALBAWABA - The South African government said on Monday it would recall all its diplomats from Israel to "signal" its concern over the situation in Gaza, AFP reported.
Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, a minister in the president's office, stated at a news conference that all diplomatic personnel stationed in Tel Aviv will be called to return to Pretoria for discussions.
Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told a later press conference: "We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of response by Israel has become one of collective punishment,".
"We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation (of hostilities)" Pandor added.
The African National Congress (ANC), the dominant party in South Africa, has long been a strong advocate of the Palestinian cause and frequently draws parallels between it and its own fight against apartheid.
The recall of the diplomats, according to Pandor, is "usual procedure." The envoys will provide the government with a "full briefing" on the situation, after which it will determine whether to provide help or whether a "continued relationship is actually able to be sustained".
Hamas operation against Israel
Hamas military group announced on Oct. 7 a military operation called "Al-Aqsa Flood" against Israel which is the biggest offensive in decades.
Palestinian fighters “infiltrated” Israel from the Gaza Strip capturing military bases and taking hostages as photos and videos went viral online showing Hamas fighters on vehicles inside Israel and others paragliding into occupation territory.
In response, Israeli armed forces announced targeting Hamas positions inside the Gaza Strip. Thousands were killed, and dozens of thousands of others were injured in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip.
As the Israeli aggression enters its second month on the besieged strip, according to the Ministry of Health's latest report, Israeli forces managed to kill more than 9,770 Palestinians, including 4,800 children and 2550.
Additionally, 24,808 have reportedly been injured varying between severe and minor injuries. Ministry of Health also received 2,660 reports of missing people, most of whom are children.
