Two South Africans have been killed in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) announced the news on Friday, but did not reveal the identity of those who had died.

“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation can confirm that we have been notified that two South African nationals have died in this ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel,” said Dirco spokesperson Clayson Monyela.

“The verification process is currently under way because one of the individuals is reported to have an Israeli ID number, so we need to determine whether there is dual citizenship or what the picture is.”

Speaking on behalf of government, Mr Monyela expressed condolences to the individuals’ loved ones.

He said: “Our missions in Ramallah and Tel Aviv are coordinating efforts and also rendering consular assistance and services to the families of our nationals.”

The war began after Hamas militants launched a deadly attack on Israel over the weekend.

More than 2,700 people in Israel and Gaza have since been killed.

Source:BBC