South Africans marched Thursday demanding an immediate embargo on coal exports to Israel, accusing the trade of fuelling Tel Aviv’s war machine. Protesters carried placards reading “Glencore is fuelling genocide” and “No South African coal for Israel,” denouncing the mining giant’s shipments that power Israel’s grid.
Activists said South African coal enables Israel’s high-tech military operations in Gaza, where more than 62,100 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023. Iqbal Jassat of the Media Review Network condemned the government’s inaction, calling it shameful and unprincipled as Palestinians endure devastating slaughter.
Demonstrations took place outside the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition offices in Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town, amplifying calls for decisive government action. Union leader Mametlwe Sebei of GIWUSA accused authorities of hypocrisy, noting South Africa had taken Israel to the International Court of Justice.
He said it was unconscionable to supply coal while Israel maintained an electricity network sustaining its military industries used in Gaza’s destruction. “We have protested and registered our views, but what the government does is what it chooses,” Sebei told Anadolu with frustration.
The pressure on Glencore also extends beyond South Africa, as Colombian President Gustavo Petro warned of revoking its concession if exports continue. South Africa lodged a genocide case against Israel in The Hague last year, accusing it of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention’s binding obligations.
Israel also faces arrest warrants at the International Criminal Court, targeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes. As Gaza reels under bombardment and famine, South African protesters vow to intensify campaigns until coal shipments no longer fuel the war.
