On October 23, 2023, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) organized the largest pro-Palestinian rally in South Africa outside the Israeli Embassy in Pretoria. EFF President Julius Malema introduced a motion in the National Assembly calling for the immediate closure of the Israeli Embassy, which was passed by a significant majority. However, President Cyril Ramaphosa has not acted on this decision, prompting the EFF to demand economic sanctions against Israel.
The EFF has expressed its support for Palestine while condemning the violence in the region, particularly Israel's actions against Lebanon and Iran. The party has emphasized the need for decisive actions within South Africa rather than relying solely on international legal proceedings.
In a separate development, reports surfaced regarding the European Union's financial support for Turkey's migration policies, which allegedly involve violence against migrants. A German publication, along with other European media, revealed that the EU has provided nearly €10 billion to Turkey since 2012, primarily for migration management. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of migrants, including reports of abuse in detention centers.
This issue is expected to be a focal point in the upcoming EU summit, as countries like Italy and Hungary advocate for the establishment of more migrant deportation centers outside the EU to prevent migrants from entering the bloc.