Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed “deep concern” regarding the escalation of tensions in the Middle East and has called for restraint.
In a swift escalation of hostilities, on Saturday, 28 February 2026, Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones targeting Israeli territory and U.S. military bases across the Middle East.
The move was in retaliation for joint American-Israeli airstrikes that struck key Iranian leadership, military installations, and nuclear facilities.
At least 200 fatalities have been reported in Iran.
Commenting on the conflict for the first time, President Ramaphosa said: “These developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic and economic consequences”.
In a statement made available to The Bulrushes, President Ramaphosa called on all parties to “exercise maximum restraint and to act in a manner consistent with international law, international humanitarian law and the principles of the United Nations Charter”.
Article 51 of the UN Charter provides for self-defence only when a state has been subjected to an armed invasion.
Anticipatory self-defence is not permitted under international law, and self-defence cannot be based on assumption or anticipation.
“Experience has repeatedly demonstrated that there can be no military solution to fundamentally political problems that can and should be resolved diplomatically,” stated Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to President Ramaphosa.
“Military confrontation has never delivered sustainable peace, nor has it addressed the legitimate grievances that underlie conflict.
“Long-term peace and stability can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and a genuine commitment to justice and coexistence.”
President Ramaphosa, therefore, reiterates his call for intensified diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and create space for continued meaningful negotiations, the spokesperson said.
“We urge the international community, including multilateral institutions and regional partners, to redouble efforts aimed at promoting mediation and peaceful resolution,” said President Ramaphosa.
“As a nation that has 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.”
Meanwhile, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced support for the U.S. actions to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while Russia and China criticised the strikes as unprovoked aggression.
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