In a press briefing on Monday, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa labeled the ongoing conflict in Gaza as “genocide” and reiterated his call for a permanent ceasefire. Drawing parallels to South Africa’s apartheid era, Ramaphosa expressed solidarity with the Palestinians, condemning what he described as a genocidal onslaught and the killing of innocent civilians.
During the media briefing, Ramaphosa decried the collective punishment inflicted on Palestinians, highlighting the cruelty faced by children and women. He emphasized that the African National Congress (ANC), the party that led South Africa to democracy, stands firmly against the events unfolding in Palestine, considering it a matter of principle rooted in their own struggle against apartheid.
The South African leader asserted the ANC’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s struggle for freedom and self-determination. He called for an immediate end to the suffering in Gaza, urging the release of hostages and prisoners in Israeli jails to create a conducive environment for peaceful discussions.
President Ramaphosa also condemned the actions of Hamas, specifically citing an attack on October 7 that resulted in the killing of innocent civilians in Israel. The toll from Israel’s subsequent air and ground attacks on Gaza includes over 19,400 Palestinians killed and 52,286 injured, primarily women and children, according to Gaza’s health authorities.
The devastating consequences of the conflict were emphasized, with Gaza left in ruins, half of its housing damaged or destroyed, and almost 2 million people displaced. Meanwhile, over 1,200 Israelis are estimated to have been killed in the conflict, with more than 130 hostages still in captivity.
The president’s plea for an end to the violence echoes global concerns, emphasizing the need for immediate measures to address the humanitarian crisis and facilitate peace talks in the region.
