SA calls for maximum restraint as Middle East tensions escalate

The South African government is calling for maximum restraint as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate. Over the past two days, the region has been marked by military strikes and retaliatory attacks involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged the nations involved to pursue a peaceful resolution to their disputes rather than resorting to further military action. The Presidency emphasised that the current trajectory risks destabilising more than just the immediate region.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stated that the rising tensions pose a significant threat to international stability.

"President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Government of the Republic of South Africa express deep concern regarding the escalation of tensions in the Middle East," Magwenya said. "These developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic, and economic consequences."