Missile hits Kiryat Shmona during early-morning Hezbollah barrage, local leaders demand answers

South Africa is actively courting investment from Gulf monarchies to address its economic downturn, while simultaneously navigating complex foreign policy alignments that include closer ties with Iran and BRICS partners, creating a delicate balancing act.

Ministers from Pretoria have toured the Middle East, seeking billions of dollars from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar for infrastructure, logistics, and real estate projects. This outreach is part of an effort to attract outside capital as the government struggles to raise funds domestically. The Gulf states have expressed interest, possessing the necessary capital to potentially aid South Africa's industrial recovery.

However, South Africa's foreign policy, characterized by its non-alignment stance and engagement with Iran, alongside its role in pressing a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, has caused friction with Western nations. International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola defended the policy, stating it is a "sovereign choice grounded in the constitution and international law" and not anti-West.

The nation's economy faces significant headwinds. Manufacturing's share of output has halved since the early 1980s, with recent contractions in steel, machinery, and car plants leading to job cuts. The ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz has exacerbated these issues, pushing oil prices up and raising inflation concerns. Coupled with high unemployment and infrastructure challenges like power cuts and damaged rail lines, the economic situation demands urgent solutions and foreign investment.

“

Our foreign policy of non-alignment is not anti-West or anti anyone. It is a sovereign choice grounded in the constitution and international law.