South Africa's foreign minister says citizens fighting with Israeli forces in Gaza will be arrested
South Africa warns citizens fighting in Israeli armed forces of arrest upon return.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
South Africa’s Foreign Minister has declared that citizens fighting in the Israeli armed forces or alongside them in Gaza will face arrest upon returning home, leading to further tension between the two nations. The government has expressed concern about its citizens joining the IDF to fight in Gaza and warned of potential prosecution under arms control laws. South Africa’s support for Palestinians and criticisms of Israel predate the current conflict, with comparisons drawn to the apartheid era. Israel denies accusations of apartheid and genocide, while accusing South Africa of representing Hamas. Calls have been made for protesting outside embassies supporting Israel.