By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider

On Friday, 13 June 2025, Israel had launched missile attacks on Iran with the intention of attacking specific targets within the country however, this resulted in civilian and military casualties. This attack has sparked global concern including the South African government who have condemned these attacks on Iran by Israel.

These attacks hold serious concern over breach in international law, as well as endangering the lives of civilians. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has expressed in a statement saying “South Africa notes with particular concern the implications for nuclear safety and security arising from attacks in the vicinity of nuclear facilities. We recall the firm stance of the international atomic energy agency (IAEA) general conference, reflected in resolutions such as GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, against armed attacks on peaceful nuclear installations as violations of UN charter and International law.” Despite condemnation from the South African government, Israel is claiming that they are acting in self-defense however the South African government finds this statement invalid. “Article 51 of the UN Charter provides for self-defence only when a state has been subjected to an armed invasion. Thus, Israel’s public announcement of acting in pre-emptive self-defence is not valid and its actions are once again unlawful. Anticipatory self-defence is not permitted under international law. Self-defence cannot be based on assumption and anticipation.” the Ministry continued to add. The South African government has expressed remorse over the damage that was caused to civilians and the country’s infrastructure to the Islamic Republic of Iran and sent condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones due to this attack.

South Africa has called on restraint from both parties and urged the two states to approach the situation diplomatically. This isn’t the first time South Africa has stood up to Israel, as this follows ICJ court case against Israel over their occupation of Palestine as it is sighted as acts of genocide where Israel have also claimed that it is acting in self-defense in that regard as well. “South Africa urges maximum restraint by all parties and calls for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the Middle East.” said DIRCO.