The South African government is under pressure to hold citizens accountable for joining the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Despite the threat of prosecution, no action has been taken against individuals like Benjamin Rattle, who openly admitted to serving in the IDF. The government, led by Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, faces a dilemma following the ICJ’s advisory opinion declaring Israeli practices in Gaza illegal. Previous failures to address citizens’ involvement in the IDF have come under scrutiny, especially after the government filed a case against Israel at the ICJ.
South Africans joining the IDF raise legal and ethical concerns, with laws prohibiting citizens from fighting in foreign wars without government consent. Recruitment programs like Mahal target foreigners, including dual citizens, Jewish followers, and those sympathetic to Israel. Despite financial gains, foreign soldiers in the IDF may face accountability for perceived human rights violations.
Pretoria’s response to citizens joining the IDF remains uncertain, as public sentiment favors accountability. The government’s actions, or lack thereof, will determine its commitment to upholding international law and human rights standards.