The South African government has rejected the African Union (AU) Commission’s decision to grant Israel observer status, arguing that the decision was taken without consulting AU members.

In a statement by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), South Africa slammed the decision stating that Israel should not have observer status in the AU if it is not willing to negotiate a domestic peace plan without preconditions.

Dirco said the decision was “shocking” following the events earlier this year, which saw Palestinians evicted from their homes in East Jerusalem to make way for Israeli settlements.

The AU strenuously objected to the death of Palestinians and the destruction of civilian infrastructure at the time and Dirco says it is “incomprehensible” that the AU Commission was choosing to “reward” Israel.

“The unjust actions committed by Israel offend the letter and spirit of the Charter of the African Union. The AU embodies the aspirations of all Africans and reflects their confidence that it can lead the continent through the practical expression of the goals of the Charter, especially on issues relating to self-determination and decolonisation. Israel continues to illegally occupy Palestine in complete defiance of its international obligations and relevant UN resolutions,” said Dirco.

The South African government will ask the Commission chairperson to brief all member States on this decision, which it hopes will be discussed by the Executive Council and the Assembly of Heads of States and Government.