South Africa’s decision to take in 160 undocumented Palestinians fleeing Gaza has once again highlighted the contradictions shaping its foreign policy-just as the country is coming under increasing scrutiny for its expanding arms exports. The juxtaposition of a highly visible humanitarian gesture with an active role in the global arms trade reopened the question of […]
  • bestboyfriendintheworld@sh.itjust.works
    1·
    20 days ago

    But the country’s own arms-export profile casts a long shadow. In 2023, South Africa approved R3.3 billion in arms sales to nations that count among Israel’s largest military suppliers, particularly the United States and Germany. Analysts warn these exports could be re-directed to Israel or used to replenish stockpiles for allies continuing to arm the conflict. The possibility of South African-manufactured weapons indirectly feeding the same war Pretoria condemns does not sit well alongside its calls on states to halt all arms transfers to the parties involved.

    The article omits what types of arms SA exports to Germany and the US. That makes the core of this theory weak conjecture.

    • mrdown@lemmy.world
      2·
      20 days ago

      No, it doesn’t matter what type of weapons you sell if it end up used by terrorist states you are complicit in the crimes