TEHRAN – Commending the South African government for taking a bold step in filing a complaint against the Zionist regime at the International Criminal Court, Iran’s President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi has expressed his admiration for the nation's firm stance against racism and genocide.

During a phone call with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Raisi highlighted that this praiseworthy action is not only recognized and respected in the Islamic world but also applauded by freedom-loving nations worldwide.

Raisi, acknowledging potential efforts by the Zionist regime and its supporters to influence the case, stated, "Society and nations expect the International Criminal Court to deliver justice and issue a verdict condemning the criminal Zionist regime." He firmly declared the unwavering support of the Islamic Republic of Iran for South Africa's courageous move, envisioning Ramaphosa's name standing alongside Nelson Mandela's as a symbol of anti-racism and justice. 

Emphasizing the commitment of both nations to strengthening relations, Raisi highlighted the use of shared capabilities to enhance cooperation in political, economic, and scientific fields. Ramaphosa reciprocated, acknowledging Iran's consistent support for South Africa and expressing delight in witnessing influential and peace-loving nations like Iran advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Ramaphosa dismissed opposition from countries supporting the Zionist regime as ineffective in deterring South Africa's determination to combat genocide and crimes. He criticized these nations for their hypocritical approach in international relations, revealing their true nature during the crises in Gaza, where their disregard for human lives became evident. The South African President conveyed deep respect for the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasizing the history of positive relations and interactions between the two countries, expressing a keen interest in advancing bilateral ties.

South Africa filed the lawsuit in December, accusing Israel of committing genocide against the people of Gaza. At least 26,083 Palestinians have been killed and 64,487 wounded by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war on October 7, according to the latest figures published by the enclave’s Ministry of Health. The representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OCHA) in the occupied Palestinian territories says that the situation in the Gaza Strip is “nothing less than catastrophic”.