The Media Review Network (MRN) expresses grave concern over reports that South Africa allegedly authorised R279 million in arms exports to the United States, despite clear indications that the US is actively engaged in actions constituting serious violations of international law.
According to a Daily Maverick investigation, the US has escalated its military aggression, including arming Israel during its onslaught on Gaza, launching a joint attack on Iran with Israel in June 2025, conducting a military operation in Venezuela and abducting President Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, and waging an ongoing war on Iran.
These actions threaten international peace and security.
MRN fully supports the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC), which has already challenged these exports, arguing that the US’s conduct triggers the National Conventional Arms Control Committee’s (NCACC) obligation to suspend arms permits under the National Conventional Arms Control Act.
SALC has pointed to four specific US actions as proof of escalating violence and breaches of international law.
We demand that the NCACC immediately investigate these allegations, suspend all permits linked to arms destined for the US, and fully cooperate with ongoing litigation.
South Africa cannot claim commitment to justice while facilitating weapons flows to a state defying international law.
Issued by:
Dr Ahmed Haroon Jazbhay
Executive Member
Media Review Network
South Africa
Johannesburg
0848710966