South Africa
Practice relating to Rule 66. Non-Hostile Contacts between the Parties to the Conflict
South Africa’s LOAC Teaching Manual (2008) states:
2.9 Actions of Intermediaries
Protecting Powers
…
When direct contacts between commanders or contacts through bearers of flag of truce or similar persons are not possible, the commanders may also ask for cooperation from the Protecting Power (or from intermediaries such as the International Committee of the Red Cross).
South Africa’s LOAC Manual (1996) provides: “A white flag designates a truce, a request to negotiate or an indication of surrender.”
South Africa’s LOAC Teaching Manual (2008) states:
Handling of War Victims
…
- When combatants surrender, they must clearly indicate this intention, eg by raising their arms and discarding their weapons. Remember, a white flag is NOT only a sign of surrender, but also a sign of a wish to negotiate.

[emphasis in original]