British and American officials report that Israeli diplomats pressed American lawmakers to sway South Africa’s leadership. According to Axios, a communication from the Israeli Foreign Ministry urged the United States Congress to threaten the African nation with the loss of economic ties if it does not pursue withdrawal of a lawsuit brought against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The letter urged policymakers to mobilize both federal and state legislators, as well as governors and Jewish organizations, to push South Africa to alter its stance toward Israel. It warned that the costs of legal and political actions could be steep and noted that continued pressure should signal South Africa to align with what Tel Aviv sees as responsible policy, including positions seen as supportive of Hamas and critical of Israel on the international stage.
Axios reported that the Israeli Foreign Ministry directed its diplomats to aid the passage of U.S. laws that might negatively impact South Africa. Sources within the portal claim that these measures form part of a broader strategy to shift South Africa’s policy toward the Jewish state.
The broader regional situation intensified after Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, prompting Israel to respond with military operations in the Gaza Strip. The ensuing devastation of the Palestinian enclave and the growing number of displaced people drew widespread international condemnation, particularly from Islamic nations. South Africa has charged Israel with genocide against Palestinians and has filed lawsuits with the International Criminal Court and the United Nations tribunal. Turkey and other supporters echoed South Africa’s position in subsequent statements. In January, the World Court ordered Israel to avoid acts that could be construed as genocide under the Genocide Convention and to prevent soldiers from committing such acts against Palestinians. Meanwhile, Israel maintained that its actions were aimed at neutralizing Hamas and preventing further threats.
The United Nations court had previously ordered Israel to compensate for damages suffered by Palestinians.