Pretoria: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Wednesday that South Africa is "always ready" to mediate in the escalating conflict in the Middle East, where the US and Israel's offensive against Iran has led to retaliatory actions from Tehran and increased regional instability. Ramaphosa emphasized his country's willingness to contribute to global peace efforts and highlighted South Africa's readiness to engage in mediation if requested.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ramaphosa called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the "madness," expressing South Africa's commitment to dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts. He acknowledged that while US President Donald Trump is focused on the war, Pretoria would continue to advocate for peace talks if opportunities arise.

Tensions have heightened as the US and Israel launched significant military operations against Iran on Saturday, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities, including prominent figures such as Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top military officials. These attacks coincided with ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran over Iran's nuclear program, which were being facilitated by Oman.

In response to the US and Israeli strikes, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf countries, which host US military facilities. President Ramaphosa described the situation as "calamitous" and warned of its potential to extend beyond the Middle East, posing a global threat.

The conflict's repercussions have already been felt in Africa, with rising energy prices and strained supply chains, as noted by Ramaphosa during the Africa Energy Indaba conference. He compared the current situation to past geopolitical disruptions, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing the importance of enhancing regional and continental energy security and diversification.

Ramaphosa also reported engaging with several regional leaders to express South Africa's condolences, ensure the safety of citizens, and seek protection for South Africans residing in the Middle East. The South African Foreign Ministry is actively working to identify citizens in need and plans to facilitate their repatriation once safe travel becomes possible.