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November 7, 2023

South Africa Recalls Ambassador to Israel, Citing "Collective Punishment" of Palestinians
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South Africa has recalled its ambassador to Israel for consultations,
joining a growing list of nations that have withdrawn diplomatic
personnel in protest of Israel's assault on the Gaza Strip. Foreign
Minister Naledi Pandor said Monday South Africa is extremely concerned
at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the
Palestinian territories.

Naledi Pandor: "We believe the nature of response by Israel has become
one of collective punishment, which falls fully outside of the practice
of international humanitarian and international human rights law."

Over the weekend, the governments of Chad and Honduras also recalled
diplomats and embassy staff from Israel. And at the Vatican, Pope
Francis on Sunday renewed his urgent plea for a ceasefire and
humanitarian aid for Gaza.