Image Source: Geneva International Centre for Justice
World – In commemoration of the 48th United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, the South African government has renewed its call on Israel to end its illegal occupation of Palestine and stop its genocide in Gaza.
In a statement marking the annual observance, which also coincides with 30 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the State of Palestine, Pretoria reaffirmed its long-standing position, rooted in international law, in support of Palestinian self-determination.
Demand to End Occupation and Genocide
More than seven decades after their displacement, Palestinians remain without full political rights or sovereignty across the occupied territories.
The continued denial of Palestinian self-determination was described as a central driver of instability across the Middle East.
“The quest for Palestinian self-determination and statehood remains unresolved after 75 years and remains at the core of ensuring lasting peace and prosperity in the Middle East,” the statement read.
The government said Israel’s genocide in Gaza must end immediately, warning that the scale of civilian deaths, displacement and destruction demands urgent international intervention.
It called for the full implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, including a permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to the border with Egypt.
Humanitarian aid, the statement added, must be allowed into Gaza through the United Nations and other reputable relief agencies without obstruction.
South Africa Warns Israel’s International Backers
South Africa also issued a warning to states that continue to support Israel politically, economically or militarily.
It said third-party states have binding legal obligations and must not take any action that sustains either the occupation or the genocide in Gaza.
“South Africa calls on all UN member states, as third-party states, to ensure that they adhere to their international obligations not to engage in any actions that would sustain the illegal occupation or the current genocide in Palestine,” the statement said.
The ongoing siege, bombardment and mass displacement of civilians, it added, cannot be normalised, warning that silence and inaction amount to a failure of duty and responsibility.
