Portrait of Cyril Ramaphosa
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Cyril Ramaphosa on Israel

Strong ICJ proponent (strong)

TL;DR

Cyril Ramaphosa strongly advocates for a two-state solution, supports ICJ action against Israel, and calls for immediate de-escalation and aid access to Gaza.

Key Points

  • He supports the establishment of a contiguous Palestinian State existing peacefully alongside Israel along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, as of September 2025.

  • South Africa filed its Memorial to the ICJ on 28 October 2024, detailing evidence on Israel's alleged violation of the genocide convention in Gaza.

  • The President called for the immediate release of South Africans and others abducted during Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in October 2025.

Summary

Cyril Ramaphosa maintains a staunchly critical stance toward Israeli government actions, positioning South Africa as a leading international voice against policies in the Palestinian territories. His administration brought the case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), submitting evidence in October 2024 alleging violations of the Genocide Convention in Gaza, emphasizing the need to stop the catastrophe unfolding there. He consistently calls for an immediate ceasefire, the end of the genocide, and the full, unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing reports of famine and starvation.

His engagement includes offering South Africa's readiness to mediate in the Middle East conflict and condemning alleged violations of international law, such as the interception of humanitarian flotillas in international waters. Diplomatic tensions escalated significantly when South Africa declared Israel's chargé d'affaires persona non grata following insulting social media posts directed at the President, which led to reciprocal expulsion of a South African diplomat. The President’s core policy objective is the establishment of a contiguous Palestinian State alongside Israel based on the 1967 borders, demanding adherence to international law and UN resolutions from all parties.

Key Quotes

South Africa reiterates its firm commitment to the creation of a contiguous Palestinian State existing peacefully and side by side with the State of Israel, along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cyril Ramaphosa's position is strongly critical of the Israeli government's actions in Gaza and the West Bank, aligning South Africa with international accountability measures. He advocates for a two-state solution based on 1967 borders and insists on full compliance with international law and ICJ rulings. The President has also offered South Africa's services for mediation in the Middle East conflict.

The available information indicates a consistent and intensifying pro-Palestinian stance under Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly through significant diplomatic actions like taking the case to the ICJ. His recent calls emphasize de-escalation and adherence to international law, which reflects an escalation in the government's official engagement rather than a change in core principles.

The President stated that South Africa's action through the ICJ was an attempt to ensure the global solidarity that ended apartheid is mobilized to end the apartheid Palestinians are experiencing, including the genocide in Gaza. He emphasized that Israel's continued breach of international law imperils global governance institutions. Cyril Ramaphosa urged all nations to insist on compliance with the UN Charter.