President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in the Middle East, saying the development offers a critical opening for diplomacy after weeks of escalating confrontation involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The temporary ceasefire, reached on Wednesday and brokered by Pakistan, would see both sides stop sending missiles to their opponents for 10 days while negotiations take place.
He said South Africa hoped the fragile truce would create space for a permanent settlement to the conflict.
“We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire and are hopeful that it will lay the basis for a permanent resolution of the conflict,” he said, adding that all nations should uphold sovereignty and adhere to global norms governing peace and security.
The ceasefire follows a period of heightened regional tension marked by missile strikes, retaliatory attacks and growing fears of a broader war.
The confrontation intensified after Israel and the US carried out strikes on Iranian-linked targets, prompting counter‑attacks that drew international concern over the potential for a wider regional crisis.
Ramaphosa said South Africa supported ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at halting hostilities and preventing further civilian suffering.
He reiterated the country’s long‑standing position that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, mediation and respect for international law.
The ceasefire, however, remained shaky Wednesday as Israel continued to bombard Lebanon, an Iranian ally.
JN/APA