Pretoria: The South African government has issued a statement condemning Israel’s recent airstrikes on Damascus, the capital of Syria. The attacks resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of part of the Syrian Ministry of Defence and targets near the Presidential Palace.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) labeled the attack on Wednesday, 16 July 2025, as a blatant violation of Syria’s territorial integrity and international law. The statement from DIRCO highlighted concerns over the potential implications for regional stability and security.

The agency reported that Israel declared on 17 July 2025 its intentions to maintain its occupation of areas south of Damascus. This includes the redeployment of Israeli forces in the Golan Heights and the occupation of Quneitra. Furthermore, Israeli airstrikes were noted in Suwayda, Daraa, and central Damascus, marking a significant military escalation.

DIRCO also referenced the United Nations Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, who urged Israel to halt any breaches of Syrian sovereignty and adhere to the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. South Africa echoed the sentiments of the UN Secretary-General, condemning the airstrikes and advocating for a reduction in hostilities and improved humanitarian access in the region.