In a significant development, South Africa’s Parliament has voted in favor of a motion to close Israel’s embassy in Pretoria. The motion, introduced by the leftwing opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was supported by the ruling African National Congress and passed with 248 votes in favor and 91 against. While largely symbolic, the decision ultimately rests with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s government. The motion comes amid escalating tensions between the two countries over the Israeli assault on Gaza. Ramaphosa’s government has previously accused Israel of war crimes and genocide in Gaza. The centrist Democratic Alliance, which is largely pro-Israel, opposed the motion. This vote follows Israel’s decision to recall its ambassador from South Africa for consultations, highlighting the strained relationship between the two nations. As of now, South Africa has not had an ambassador in Israel since 2018. More updates to follow.