South Africa calls for restraint in the Middle East
Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The South African government on Friday said it is gravely concerned about the continuing escalation of military action by Israel on the State of Palestine and the Lebanese Republic, as well as the subsequent response by the Islamic Republic of Iran.
It has called on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any act that would escalate tensions in a particularly fragile region, as it is vulnerable groups who suffer the most under conflict.
“The continued occupation of Palestine has denied the Palestinian people their enshrined rights of self-determination and statehood, which remains a prerequisite to restoring peace and security in the Region. South Africa calls on the international community and the United Nations Security Council, in particular, to address the spiralling conflict,’ said International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Chrispin Phiri.
He reiterated the concern expressed by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres who said he was alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation and that neither the region nor the world can afford another war.”
“It was noted with dismay that the Secretary-General was declared as persona non grata by the State of Israel, and South Africa calls on the international community to commit to upholding International Law, International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights Law and the purposes and principals of the United Nations Charter to maintain international peace and security for all, without prejudice or favour. As long as there is impunity for unlawful acts, war and injustice will continue,” he added.
-0- PANA CU/MA 4Oct2024
