Mixed feelings in Parliament on suspension of diplomatic ties with Israel

The EFF tabled the motion amid the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel in Gaza. 

ACDP leader Reverend Kenneth Meshoe said it's only the enemies of the Israeli people that would support the motion.

"The ACDP rejects the EFF call to close the Israeli embassy in South Africa and suspend all diplomatic relations with Israel."

ALSO READ: ANC set to march in solidarity with Palestinian people

"The EFF is ignorant of the fact that South Africa needs Israel much more than Israel needs South Africa.

"South Africa has many needs. Without Israel, we risk diplomatic tensions that can hinder communication channels for addressing regional issues."

The National Freedom Party's Ahmed Shaik Emam said Israel's embassy in South Africa must be immediately closed.

"The truth of the matter is the land belongs to the Palestinians. When the Jews were thrown around the world, it was the Palestinians who showed them love and respect and welcomed them.

"We must shut down this embassy. We must shut it down immediately and kick out the ambassador.

 "Those that are part and parcel of the atrocity, let’s search for them and hand them to the (International) Criminal Court. Let’s not worry about any further sanctions; break all ties until the barbaric state of Israel is willing to sit down and negotiate."

The ANC gave its support to the motion.

 "The ANC is very clear we don't condone what happened on the 7th of April, that was made clear by the Minister of DIRCO, and the Deputy Minister has made it clear,” said ANC MP Hope Papo. 

"The murder of 11,000 women and children is extremely disproportionate."