The attacks triggered a series of retaliatory strikes by Israel in Gaza, with ceasefires repeatedly violated and the death toll surpassing 40 000.

In response to the escalating violence, SA has taken Israel to the International Court of Justice, accusing it of committing acts of genocide.

Lamola firmly denied any forewarning of the Hamas attacks, stating, "I have also seen the letter that was sent to the incoming ambassador about the same matter, that we were somehow aware of the October 7 incident. I want to state again categorically that, as the SA government, we were not aware. No official was aware of this planned attack on October 7."

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--