Israel
4 January 2009
The South African government unequivocally and in the strongest possible
terms condemns the escalation of violence on the part of Israel brought about
by the launching last night of a ground invasion into Gaza.
The resultant loss of life and continuing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza
is unacceptable. The South African government calls on the Israeli government
to stop the military onslaught in Gaza and to immediately and unconditionally
withdraw its forces from Gaza.
The Gaza strip is recognised as one of the most densely populated areas in
the world and the Israeli land offensive, involving the use of armoured
vehicles and heavily armed troops, with the close support of artillery and
helicopter gunships will inevitably lead to an even larger loss of civilian
life which will have an impact throughout the region for years to come. The
medical facilities in Gaza already cannot cope with the number of civilians
that are being treated as a result of the air strikes, and they will clearly be
unable to deal with the increased number of casualties as a result of the land
invasion.
South Africa also calls upon the United Nations to stand together in
condemning the escalation of violence on the part of Israel. The International
Community has a responsibility to use what ever means possible to stop the
violence that is leading to the unacceptable humanitarian crisis in the
region.
The South African government calls on all parties to resume negotiations as
soon as possible.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
4 January 2009
