South Africa expels Israeli envoy, declares him persona non grata

South Africa accuses Israeli representative of ‘gross abuse of diplomatic privilege’ as Israel orders reciprocal move.

South Africa has expelled Israeli envoy Ariel Seidman, citing his “unacceptable violations of diplomatic norms” and social media attacks against President Cyril Ramaphosa. In retaliation, Israel declared South African diplomat Shaun Edward Byneveldt persona non grata. This diplomatic spat escalates amid tensions over Israel’s actions in Gaza, where South Africa has accused it of genocide. The Economic Freedom Fighters party has called for severing ties with Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.