The Walter and Albertina Sisulu Foundation for Social Justice has expressed its solidarity with the people of Iran, condemning the recent military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities by the United States and Israel. In a letter addressed to the Iranian Embassy in South Africa, the Foundation voiced its support for Iran and described the strikes as a violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
The Foundation’s letter, signed by Lindiwe Sisulu in her capacity as patron, framed the situation in Iran as a “betrayal of diplomacy” and called for a high-level dialogue involving ambassadors, African multilateral bodies such as the African Union and Southern African Development Community (SADC), lawmakers, and scholars specialising in international law and geopolitics.
Iran’s Commitment to International Law
Iran has consistently demonstrated its commitment to international law, including the NPT, and has been subject to regular inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Foundation’s letter highlighted the importance of upholding international law and respecting the sovereignty of nations.
Response from the Iranian Embassy
In response to the Foundation’s letter, the Iranian Embassy in South Africa issued a statement expressing its gratitude to all parties that have shown solidarity with the people of Iran. The statement read: “We hope that the support will continue until the end of this illegal aggression. The people of South Africa have always shown that they stand on the right side of history. South Africa is the homeland of Mandela, a symbol of the struggle for freedom.”
The situation in Iran has sparked widespread concern and condemnation from around the world. The
- international community
- human rights organisations
- religious leaders
have all called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis and an end to the violence.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to the crisis in Iran. One thing is certain, however: the people of South Africa will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Iran, condemning any actions that violate international law and undermine the sovereignty of nations.
