South Africa has recalled its ambassador to Israel for consultations, joining a growing list of nations that have withdrawn diplomatic personnel in protest of Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip. Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said Monday South Africa is extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories.

Naledi Pandor: “We believe the nature of response by Israel has become one of collective punishment, which falls fully outside of the practice of international humanitarian and international human rights law.”

Over the weekend, the governments of Chad and Honduras also recalled diplomats and embassy staff from Israel. And at the Vatican, Pope Francis on Sunday renewed his urgent plea for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza.