JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – South Africa condemned Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities Friday that killed at least 78 people, calling the attacks a violation of international law and sovereignty.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) expressed “profound concern” about attacks on military areas, nuclear facilities and civilian infrastructure on June 13. The Israeli military launched over 200 fighter jets targeting more than 100 sites across Iran in “Operation Rising Lion.”
Iranian officials confirmed 78 deaths including senior military commanders, with 320 wounded, mostly civilians. Among those killed were Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Hossein Salami and Armed Forces Chief Mohammad Bagheri.
The strikes destroyed Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility’s above-ground pilot plant and damaged military installations. South Africa warned the attacks raise “serious concerns under international law, including principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and protection of civilians.”
DIRCO noted “particular concern about implications for nuclear safety and security” from attacks near nuclear facilities. The ministry cited International Atomic Energy Agency resolutions declaring armed attacks on peaceful nuclear installations as violations of UN Charter.
“These actions could have unprecedented repercussions,” said Egyptian officials. Egypt condemned the strikes as “blatant and extremely dangerous regional escalation” threatening to plunge the Middle East into “widespread chaos.”
Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israel late Friday, killing at least three people and injuring dozens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Air raid sirens sounded across Israel as authorities urged citizens to take shelter.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation aimed to “damage Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, its ballistic missile factories and military capabilities.” He claimed the strikes were planned for months following regional tensions.
The U.S. military helped shoot down Iranian missiles headed for Israel, though officials said Washington was not involved in initial Israeli strikes. President Donald Trump urged Iran to agree to nuclear deal “before there is nothing left.”
South Africa called for “urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions” and supported ongoing U.S.-Iran bilateral discussions. The government reaffirmed importance of establishing Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Middle East.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for “maximum restraint to avoid descent into deeper conflict.” The African Union expressed grave concern, warning current developments “pose serious threat to international peace and security.”
Japan condemned military action during diplomatic negotiations as “deeply regrettable.” Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya said use of force while U.S.-Iran nuclear talks were ongoing escalates the situation.
Nuclear talks between Tehran and United States scheduled for Sunday remain uncertain. The strikes came after IAEA declared Iran wasn’t complying with nuclear non-proliferation agreements Thursday.
“South Africa emphasises that anticipatory self-defence under Article 51 of UN Charter requires clear evidence of imminent armed attack, which does not appear substantiated,” DIRCO stated.
The ministry extended condolences to Iranian government and families of victims. South Africa reiterated commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomatic means.
