South Africa says Israeli attacks on Iran could violate international law

The South African government noted that "anticipatory self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter requires clear evidence of an imminent armed attack, which does not appear to be proven in this case" and called for a "peaceful resolution" to the conflict.

The South African government warned that Israel's airstrikes against Iranian nuclear, military, and civilian facilities early Friday could violate international law and expressed concern about the risks to "nuclear security."

"These actions raise serious concerns under international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians enshrined in the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law," South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said in a statement.

"South Africa views with particular concern the implications for nuclear security arising from attacks in the vicinity of nuclear facilities," DIRCO stressed.

The South African government recalled that "anticipatory self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter requires clear evidence of an imminent armed attack , which does not appear to be proven in this case" and called for a "peaceful resolution of the dispute."

The Israeli army launched a series of attacks against Iranian military, nuclear, and civilian infrastructure early Friday morning , which has continued until today, resulting in the deaths of military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians . In total, Iranian authorities have reported 78 dead and 320 wounded as a result of the attacks.

In retaliation, Iran responded Friday night with at least three missile attacks against Tel Aviv , killing three people and wounding some 38 , according to the Jewish state's press.

The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has updated its travel recommendations following Israel's attacks on Iran and advises Spanish citizens against traveling to these countries given the seriousness of the situation and the risk of rapid deterioration.

In the section dedicated to Israel, the Foreign Ministry recalls that the country formally declared a "state of war" in October 2023 and emphasizes that following the June 13 attacks , its airspace has been closed indefinitely . In the event of flight cancellations, the Ministry strongly recommends contacting the airlines or travel agencies.

Pope Leo XIV urged "responsibility and reason" and "a commitment to building a world free from the nuclear threat " in the face of the recent attacks between Iran and Israel, during an appeal at the Jubilee audience he held this Saturday in St. Peter's Basilica.

"These days, news is arriving that is deeply worrying, as the situation between Iran and Israel has seriously deteriorated at this very delicate moment, so I wish to strongly renew my call for responsibility and reason," the American pontiff stated.

He added that "the commitment to building a safer world, free from the nuclear threat, must be pursued through respectful engagement and sincere dialogue to build a lasting peace founded on justice, fraternity, and the common good."

" No one should ever threaten the existence of another , and it is the duty of all countries to support the cause of peace, opening paths to reconciliation and promoting solutions that guarantee the security and dignity of all," said Leo XIV.