South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola addresses journalists during a media briefing at the department’s offices in South Africa. Photo: DIRCO

NNA News - South Africa has called for restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts to address the conflict in Yemen following an escalation of attacks in the Red Sea region, including around the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait and against Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said the attacks raised concerns about regional security and the sovereignty of states in the area.

“The Government of the Republic of South Africa notes with serious concern the renewed escalation of attacks in the Red Sea region, particularly in and around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, including the attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as in the context of the protracted conflict in Yemen,” the department said.

South Africa also condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, expressing condolences for those killed or seriously injured. The government said the protection of civilians must remain a priority under international law.

“South Africa condemns any attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with established principles of international law and wishes to convey its condolences for the loss of lives and serious injuries caused in these attacks,” the statement said.

The government urged all parties to avoid actions that could intensify regional instability and called for negotiations to address the conflict in Yemen. “South Africa urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from actions that could further escalate regional instability,” DIRCO said.

It added that a political settlement was necessary to address the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and establish lasting peace. “South Africa concurs with the Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General for Yemen that the suffering of the Yemeni people can only be addressed sustainably through negotiations between the parties and an inclusive political process under UN auspices,” the department said.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola reiterated South Africa's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law.

The department said Lamola emphasised that peace in Yemen and stability in the Red Sea region were important not only for the countries directly affected but also for international commerce and African development. “The Minister emphasised that sustainable peace in Yemen and stability in the Red Sea region remain essential for regional prosperity, international trade and the advancement of Africa's development agenda,” the statement said.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is a key maritime passage linking shipping routes between Europe, Asia, Africa and the Suez Canal. Disruptions in the area can affect commercial shipping, transport costs and the movement of goods across international markets.

South Africa's statement did not identify those responsible for the attacks referenced. It focused on the need to protect civilians, respect state sovereignty and pursue a negotiated settlement.

The government called for diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation and support a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen.