Israeli ambassador pulled out from South Africa

Israel has decided to recall its ambassador from South Africa for consultations due to recent statements made by South African officials regarding Israel. The South African government has been highly critical of Israel's military operation in Gaza and recently called for an arrest warrant to be issued for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court. South Africa's parliament is also expected to vote on whether to close the Israeli embassy and suspend diplomatic relations until Israel agrees to a cease-fire and engages in UN-facilitated negotiations. The recall of the Israeli ambassador comes just before South Africa is set to host a virtual summit of the Brics group, which includes China and Russia, to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict. South Africa has been a long-time supporter of the Palestinian cause and has accused Israel of engaging in "collective punishment" in Gaza. In response, Israel maintains that it is acting in self-defense and aims to eliminate Hamas and prevent future attacks. South Africa, along with several other countries, has referred the situation in Gaza to the International Criminal Court for investigation of potential war crimes and crimes against humanity. It is worth noting that South Africa has not had an ambassador in Israel for the past five years.