In his weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa once again called for an “immediate ceasefire” to end the ongoing violence and suffering in Gaza. Marking one year since the escalation of conflict between Israel and Hamas, Ramaphosa emphasized the severe humanitarian toll, stating that over 43,000 lives have been lost, with both Israeli and Palestinian civilians suffering immensely.
Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to international law, social justice, and the peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He condemned the killing of civilians in Israel during the attacks of 7 October 2023 and called for the release of hostages and prisoners held unlawfully by both sides. He also expressed concern over the growing regional tensions, warning that strikes between Israel, Lebanon, and Iran could lead to a broader conflict in the Middle East, disproportionately affecting civilians.
The President also announced South Africa’s intention to file a memorial with the International Court of Justice, presenting evidence of alleged war crimes and genocide in Palestine, further emphasizing the need for an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. Ramaphosa called on the international community to provide urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza and to work together to prevent the conflict from escalating further.
