The EFF and the ANC joined forces on Tuesday to propose that the government dismantle its embassy in Tel Aviv, as well as the Israeli embassy in Pretoria.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa – Although Parliament decided that the government should suspend diplomatic contacts with Israel during a cease-fire and peace talks, the Department of International Contacts and Cooperation (DIRCO) stated that entirely breaking ties would be counter-productive.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the African National Congress (ANC) joined forces on Tuesday to propose that the government dismantle its embassy in Tel Aviv, as well as the Israeli embassy in Pretoria.
But how significant is this resolution?
Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is obligated to inform the president and appropriate agencies of the National Assembly’s resolution on the Israeli issue.
But as House chairperson, Cedric Frolick, explained, the resolution is not legally binding and Parliament can’t force the executive to implement it.
“The draft resolution and its amendment take into account the separation of powers and the role of government in foreign policy formulation. Such a resolution would be politically persuasive – rather than instructive.”
In a written reply to a parliamentary question from the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) on the same matter, International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor said South Africa cannot have normal relations with Israel for as long it’s not willing to negotiate a peace plan.
She added that while there’s merit in calls for a diplomatic downgrade, breaking ties with Israel would affect South Africa’s representation in Ramallah, and weaken the potential for the country to help the Palestinian cause.
Pandor said the government would consult relevant stakeholders to assess the approach the country should take in respect of its diplomatic relations with Israel.
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