South Africa To Present New Israel Discussion Paper To Cabinet In 2026

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has announced that it will submit a fresh discussion paper on Israel to Cabinet in the new year.

Director-General Zane Dangor said the document will examine South Africa’s legal responsibilities as a third-party state in relation to Israel’s alleged breaches of international law.

The announcement comes as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) continue to demand clarity on delays in implementing a parliamentary motion from the previous term, which called for the closure of South Africa’s diplomatic mission in Tel Aviv.

South Africa’s Diplomatic Engagements with Israel Under Review

Ambassador to Palestine Shaun Byneveldt emphasised that MPs must consider the close connection between Israel and the occupied territories.

Dangor added that DIRCO maintains regular communication with the Presidency on foreign policy matters, including issues concerning Israel.

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“We’ve just given another briefing document this week. Hopefully we can engage with the entire executive quite soon,” Dangor said.

Officials from DIRCO explained that while South Africa no longer maintains a physical chancery in Israel, five staff members, including a consular clerk and a politico secretary, remain stationed in Tel Aviv at a monthly cost of nearly R400,000.

The country also maintains a residence in the city, which requires ongoing maintenance.

EFF Questions Future of South Africa’s Tel Aviv Mission

EFF MP Nqobile Mhlongo questioned whether the department intends to sever all ties with Israel, noting the parliamentary resolution from the sixth Parliament that called for a complete diplomatic withdrawal.

“Our presence there with the resolution of the sixth Parliament that we must cut all diplomatic ties is not necessary anymore or they’ve just been quiet and simply waiting for the president to initiate talks?” Mhlongo asked.

Ambassador Byneveldt, based in Ramallah, explained that travel to and from the West Bank requires Israeli approval, and a foreign office in Tel Aviv continues to support South Africa’s activities in the region.

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