South Africa Calls for Restraint as Middle East Tensions Escalate
Viable News Team 
President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Government of the Republic of South Africa have expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to regional and global peace and security.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Ramaphosa urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint and to act in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of the United Nations Charter. He emphasised that Article 51 of the UN Charter permits self-defence only in cases of an actual armed attack, noting that anticipatory self-defence is not recognised under international law and cannot be justified by assumption or speculation.
The President reiterated South Africa’s long-standing position that military action cannot resolve fundamentally political conflicts, stressing that history has shown armed confrontation fails to deliver sustainable peace or address the root causes of conflict. According to Ramaphosa, lasting stability can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue, justice and coexistence.
He further called for intensified diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, urging the international community, multilateral institutions and regional partners to prioritise mediation and peaceful negotiation.
“As a nation that emerged from conflict through dialogue and reconciliation, South Africa remains steadfast in its belief that peace is not only possible, but imperative for the shared future of the Middle East and the world,” President Ramaphosa said.
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