South African Government on Israeli military incursion into Gaza

28 June 2006

The South African Government is deeply concerned at the recent military
incursion of northern and southern Gaza, and the West Bank over the past two
days, resulting in the destruction of critical infrastructure.

The South African Government condemns the Israeli Government’s policy of
collective punishment as a direct violation of International Law. Israel’s
bombing campaign on 28 June 2006, which has continued unabated, has resulted in
the destruction of strategic bridges and access roads as well as Gaza’s only
power plant, causing a cut in Gaza’s water supply as it operates on an
electrical pumping system. “In his most recent report John Dugard, the United
Nation special human rights rapporteur, has highlighted the dire state of
Gaza’s medical facilities.

The loss of Gaza’s only power plant has now resulted in a lack of
electricity and water for these critical facilities, which can only exacerbate
the humanitarian crisis faced by ordinary Palestinians in Gaza. Although Israel
has legitimate security concerns, these should not be addressed at the expense
of international law and human rights of the Palestinian people.” Deputy
Minister Aziz Pahad said.

Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad said, “The South African Government is again
calling for caution with regard to the situation in the occupied Palestinian
territories. Furthermore, the unlawful arrests of Palestinian Cabinet Ministers
including the Deputy Prime Minister and members of the Palestinian Legislative
Authority are illegal and unacceptable and we call for their immediate
release.

The South African Government calls on the Israeli Government to stop its
military offensive and to take all necessary measures to ensure that this
situation is not further exacerbated. The South African Government is of the
view that peace can only be achieved through a negotiated settlement, based on
a two-State solution that provides for a sovereign Palestinian State and
guarantees the right of Israel to live within secure borders.

The military intervention and the arrests of senior Palestinian leaders come
at a time when many world leaders were interacting with the Palestinian leaders
to seek the release of Gilad Shalit.

It also comes hours after the historic Palestinian acceptance of a plan from
leaders of all Palestinian factions incarcerated in Israel prisons. This was a
major step forward and opened up real possibilities of ending violence and
finding a two-state solution. Given this reality how can anyone justify the
invasion, arrests and massive destruction of Palestinian infrastructure? Sadly
we have entered a very dangerous period which will threaten the stability of
the region and international peace and security.”

Enquires:
Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853

Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
30 June 2006