Israel–South Africa relations

Israel–South Africa relations refer to the current and historic relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the State of Israel. During the 1950s and 1960s, Israel became an open critic of the apartheid regime in South Africa, hoping to establish good relations with black-majority countries in Africa. However, most African countries severed ties with Israel in 1973 while increasing their ties with Arab countries. This situation led Israel to deepen its diplomatic ties with South Africa throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Up to 1986, Israel had a vibrant economic relationship but was forced to sanction South Africa in 1987, mainly as a consequence of American pressure.

After apartheid ended in 1994, relations remained cordial during Nelson Mandela's presidency, although they experienced a sharp deterioration since, with South Africa's position tilting in favour of the Palestinians, owing in part to a historic alliance between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Israel currently maintains an embassy in Pretoria and a trade office in Johannesburg, while South Africa has an embassy in Tel Aviv.