Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, says his country is prepared to help mediate the escalating conflict in the Middle East as tensions rise following attacks involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Speaking on Wednesday, Ramaphosa said Pretoria stands ready to contribute to peace efforts if requested, stressing that South Africa remains committed to supporting mediation initiatives under the guidance of the United Nations.
He called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to end what he described as the “madness”, emphasising that dialogue remains the most effective path to prevent further loss of lives.
The conflict intensified after large-scale attacks on Iran were launched on 28 February by the United States and Israel, reportedly killing more than 1,000 people, including senior Iranian figures. The strikes occurred while negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme were ongoing under mediation by Oman.
Iran has since retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and several Gulf countries hosting American military assets, raising fears of a wider regional war. Ramaphosa described the situation as “calamitous” and warned that it represents one of the most dangerous developments in global security, with the risk of drawing more countries into the conflict.
The South African leader also revealed that his government is engaging with several regional leaders to ensure the safety of South African citizens in the Middle East. Authorities are identifying nationals who may require assistance and are preparing possible evacuation efforts once airspace in the region reopens.
Addressing the Africa Energy Indaba conference, Ramaphosa added that the conflict is already affecting African economies through rising energy prices and disruptions to supply chains. He warned that the crisis highlights the vulnerability of import-dependent economies across the continent, and underscored the need for stronger regional energy security and diversification.