Phil Magakoe AFP
The South African government has expressed its serious concern about the escalating situation in the Middle East.
The Department of International Relations said in a statement the country had continuously stressed that irrespective of whether states believed their use of force was lawful, it was never wise to resort to war as ordinary people bear the brunt of the conflict.
It has called on the international community and the United Nations Security Council to act in pursuit of sustainable peace and an immediate ceasefire.
Meanwhile, a professor of International Relations at Wits University, John Stremlau, warned against an attack on Iran's nuclear installations.
Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel on Saturday evening in retaliation after Israel allegedly attacked Iran's consulate in Damascus, Syria at the beginning of the month.
Professor Stremlau said the "danger would get worse" should Israel directly attack Iran. He said there were "hardliners" in the government who were calling for Israel to attack nuclear facilities.
"That would be a very dangerous development," he said.
UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, said it was time to "step back from the brink."
"It's vital to avoid any action that would lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East. Civilians are already bearing the brunt and paying the highest price," he said.
Guterres added that they have a shared responsibility to engage all the parties concerned and prevent further escalation.
