South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has signalled Pretoria’s willingness to step into the escalating Middle East conflict as a mediator, provided its help is formally requested, as the region grapples with rising violence and diplomatic strain. Ramaphosa made the remarks on the sidelines of an energy conference in Cape Town, telling local media that South Africa is “always ready to play a contributing role, either in mediation or whatever,” according to comments broadcast on Newzroom Afrika.