In a stark contrast to its international rhetoric opposing Tel Aviv, South Africa has emerged as a key coal supplier for Israel. Recent data indicates that South African coal exports to Israel rose by 17 percent in 2024, reaching approximately 1.6 million tonnes valued at $178 million, according to the United Nations trade database.
This increase came immediately after Colombia decided to suspend its shipments to Israel in August 2024, opening the door for Pretoria to fill the market, aided by the Swiss company Glencore, which oversaw 15 shipments since October 2023, six of which occurred after Bogotá’s decision.
Observers suggest that South Africa has effectively become Israel’s economic savior, continuing to provide millions of tonnes of coal despite raising slogans of solidarity with the Palestinians on the political front. This underscores the prioritization of economic interests over international ethical discourse.
