Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, has expressed his country’s willingness to play a mediating role in the ongoing Middle East conflict, should South Africa be asked to do so.
Speaking on the sidelines of an energy conference in Cape Town, Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of dialogue in ending hostilities and achieving a ceasefire.
“South Africa is always ready to play a contributing role, either in mediation or whatever. And if a gap opens or if we are asked, we always live up to our obligations,” he told local broadcaster Newzroom Afrika.
The president stressed that the government is prepared to intervene diplomatically to halt the war, saying:
“If the opportunity were to open, we would talk and say: there must be a ceasefire. Dialogue is always the best way of ending conflict and then ending the war. And we want this war to come to an end immediately.”
Ramaphosa also highlighted efforts by the South African government to bring home citizens stranded in the conflict zone, underscoring the humanitarian dimension of his administration’s response.
South Africa has a history of involvement in international peace efforts and often positions itself as a mediator in regional and global conflicts. The country’s offer comes amid growing international calls for de-escalation and protection of civilians in the affected areas.
