Picture: for illustration purposes
In a recent escalation of the Middle East conflict, two South African citizens have been confirmed dead following a sudden assault launched by Hamas, the militant wing, on Israel from Gaza. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), as confirmed in an official statement, has been painted a grim picture of the escalating violence that has swiftly transformed into a full-scale war.
The conflict started in the early hours of Saturday with an unexpected assault from Hamas and escalated as Israel responded, leading to a surge in rocket launchings into Gaza. With profound sadness, the attendant loss of thousands of lives reverberates through both sides, inching closer to home with the unfortunate demise of the South African nationals.
As delineated by Dirco spokesperson, Clayson Monyela, there has been an official intimation regarding the distressing loss of the South African citizens, combined with the unfolding complexity of one victim purportedly holding an Israeli ID number. This eventual circumstance has triggered a meticulous verification process to elucidate the matter of possible dual citizenship, an inquiry that is presently ongoing.
Monyela expressed both empathy and commitment from the government towards the grieving families of the victims. The unfolding situation sees the Ramallah and Tel Aviv missions working fervently to provide consular services, promising support and assistance to the bereaved families during their challenging times.