International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has commended Pakistan for its role in mediating efforts to promote peace between the United States and Iran, following recent tensions in the Middle East.
Lamola held a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, during which he acknowledged ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving “a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East.” This comes as US and Iranian officials prepare for talks in Islamabad this weekend, following a two-week ceasefire agreement.
South Africa has urged all parties to commit to meaningful negotiations. “The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all affected nations must be respected by all parties involved. Furthermore, in accordance with international human rights and humanitarian law, civilian populations and infrastructure must never be targeted under any circumstances,” Lamola said.
He further stressed that any lasting ceasefire should also take Lebanon into account, amid differing interpretations of the agreement. While the US and Israel maintain that Lebanon is not included in the ceasefire framework, Iran disputes this position. Mediator Pakistan, however, has stated that Lebanon is part of the agreement.
Addressing heads of mission from the Middle East and Asia, Lamola said the conflict has global consequences. “Although our countries and regions are at varying distances from the battlefield, none is beyond its consequences,” he said.
He reaffirmed South Africa’s support for impartial mediation to secure lasting peace in the region.
VOC News
Photo: X/ @DIRCO_ZA
