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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Supra Mahumapelo, expressed concern over the escalation of tensions in the Middle East and welcomed as well as supports President Cyril Ramaphosa’s calls 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.
 
Mr Mahumapelo also said these developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic and economic consequences. He said Article 51 of the UN Charter provides for self-defence only when a state has been subjected to an armed invasion.
 
He said there can be no military solution to fundamentally political problems that can and should be resolved diplomatically. He said even in history, military confrontation never resolved political problems. “We are calling on all those who are involved for inclusive dialogue and a genuine commitment to justice and peace, and for intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions,” said Mr Mahumapelo.

He added: "We are calling on the international community, and regional partners, to promote mediation and peace in the middle East. The international community has never failed in the promotion of dialogue and peace in strife-torn countries and regions in the whole world.”

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo