Pandor crosses line in diplomacy

There is no doubt that our own Mother Theresa, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, is more than slightly miffed at having been snubbed by Israel and the international community.

Her ego has taken a blow and her status has been devalued. This has undoubtedly prompted more action to make her voice heard. She has called for protests outside the embassies of the five major supporters of Israel.

Foreign diplomats have protested and are calling for police protection as per the Vienna Convention. Pandor’s call is unheard of in the realm of diplomatic relations.

She also maintains that Israel’s defiance of the International Court of Justice ruling will set a precedent for leaders to defy the top UN court. South Africa is guilty of this in the past. Pandor is losing perspective, if not the plot. She stated: “We are seeing mass starvation now and famine before our very eyes.”

What about the horrifying situation in Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia and even South Africa?

Will Pandor be held accountable for the violence or loss of life at demonstrations? Protests in SA have the potential for extreme violence. But she will soon have another headache as Israelis are eyeing Gush Katif in Gaza to expand their settlements.

Pandor has certainly not covered herself with glory.

Is she really fit for the post she holds? John R

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