Johannesburg – Last Friday, a small group of Palestinian activists demonstrated outside the Paramount Group Headquarters situated in Midrand. They aimed to disrupt the company’s regular operations and highlight their alleged involvement with the Israeli military.
Established in South Africa in 1994, Paramount Group is renowned for developing and producing defence and aerospace systems, operating across multiple locations, including Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi.
Shortly after the commencement of Israel’s war in Gaza, Palestinian trade unions urged international counterparts and individuals to intervene immediately, halting the sale of arms to Israel and taking a stand against military entities complicit in supplying and funding the regime.
Mahfouz Raffee, an activist affiliated with the SA BDS Coalition, underscored Paramount Group as a supplier of military arms with alleged ties and dealings to Israel.
Further, the activist’s written statement suggested Ivor Ichikowitz, the founder of Paramount Group, is an outspoken Zionist. Allegations were made that through his family’s foundation, he raised funds in support of Israeli soldiers.
“As can be understood with any arms company, but especially someone with a reputation like Ichikowitz, there’s a web of intricate dealings that make things quite opaque for the layman to see. But the link with Israel is extremely clear.”
SMread| Hands of Hope: Dr Mads Gilbert’s compassionate crusade for healing in Palestine
Calls for More Pressure on Military Companies with Ties to Israel
Commenting on the aftermath of Friday’s protest, Raffee insinuated the company aimed to reduce direct engagement with the protesters to mitigate their association with the demonstration.
Even though the Palestinian supporters’ presence was comparatively modest in contrast to other ongoing marches nationwide, Raffee maintains the belief that Paramount Group represents a crucial focal point for South Africans to exert pressure in their campaign against apartheid Israel.
“We will be mobilising a wider range of people. Because we think this is an extremely important pressure point for South Africans to take in defence of the people of Palestine.”
The activist’s statement articulated various demands, including the call for the company to cease its activities in both South Africa and Israel. Additionally, they urged the South African government to take further steps, such as closing the Israeli embassy, terminating all military agreements with Paramount Group, and completely severing ties with the Israeli regime.
