Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
21 December 2024 | 14:50 CAT

Despite leading international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza, South Africa’s coal exports to Israel continue to fuel the genocide and occupation. (GettyImages)

South Africa’s coal exports to Israel have come under scrutiny following revelations in SOMO’s report, Powering Injustice, which highlights the role of global energy trade in perpetuating international crimes in Palestine. Activists and organizations are calling for urgent measures to halt these exports, citing the complicity of South African coal in fueling Israel’s occupation and alleged apartheid system.

Roshan Dadoo, Coordinator of the South African Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) Coalition, emphasized the significance of the findings in an interview with Radio Islam International, stating, “We provide roughly 15% of Israel’s coal imports. While this is a small percentage of our overall exports, it is crucial for their energy needs, fueling illegal settlements and military infrastructure.” She further explained that halting these exports would align with South Africa’s historical stance against apartheid and its commitments under the Genocide Convention.

The report also sheds light on South Africa’s coal trade through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal and Maputo ports, raising questions about the role of companies like Glencore in enabling these activities. Dadoo noted, “Since October 2023, at least seven ships have carried South African coal to Israel. This implicates both state-owned entities like Transnet and private firms in these transactions.”

The BDS Coalition is urging South Africa to follow Colombia’s example by imposing a coal embargo. Such a move, Dadoo argued, would not negatively impact South Africa’s economy but could significantly weaken Israel’s energy sector. She highlighted the effectiveness of international pressure, stating, “Targeted sanctions and embargoes were instrumental in ending apartheid in South Africa. Similar measures can support the Palestinian struggle for liberation.”

Dadoo also underscored the need for corporate accountability. “Companies are sensitive to public pressure. Protests and boycotts, like those targeting McDonald’s and Puma, have led to tangible results. We need to appeal to their moral obligations as well as legal ones.”

As global momentum builds for the Global Energy Embargo for Palestine (GEEP), South Africa is urged to lead by example. Activists believe that cutting energy trade ties with Israel is a moral and political imperative in the broader fight for justice and human rights.

Listen here to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Roshan Dadoo.