South Africa has expressed profound concern regarding attacks conducted by Israel on targets inside Iran, including impacts on military areas, nuclear facilities and civilian infrastructure.

In a statement from the Department of International Relations, the Government called the civilian casualties, alongside military personnel as deeply troubling.

South Africa condemns Israeli attacks on Iran, reiterates unwavering commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/iLpjebMR8o

— Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) June 13, 2025

South Africa also raised concerns around the implications of targeting nuclear facilities in Iran particularly raising questions around safety and security arising from attacks on such areas.

The statement also questioned the rationale around Israel’s claim of acting pre-emptively in self-defence, arguing that in terms of the UN Charter, it required clear evidence of an imminent armed attack which did not appear substantiated in this instance.

South Africa further urged maximum restraint by all parties and called for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the Middle East.

Israel strikes Iran’s nuclear facilities