Israel's Ambassador to South Africa Recalled.

By Deborah Tate (VOA-Jerusalem)

Israel is recalling its ambassador to South Africa amid allegations he had an affair with a female South African army officer. Foreign Minister Ariel Sharon ordered Ambassador Uri Oren to return home for a hearing after reviewing a report about the case

The South African army officer involved in the alleged affair led a military intelligence unit. She has not been publicly identified. Although the case has raised questions about possible attempted espionage, Israeli Foreign Ministry Spokesman Aviv Shir-On says it has not hurt bilateral relations. "Diplomatic contacts are continuing as usual. The definition is business as usual."

Oren -- who has served in South Africa for less than two years -- has denied having an intimate relationship with the woman, although he has acknowledged meeting with her frequently. Haaretz says rumors of the ambassador's alleged affair were widespread in the South African Jewish community.

The story surfaced last month when a housekeeper told police who were investigating several thefts at the official residence about frequent visits by a woman who was not the ambassador's wife.