JOHANNESBURG, (The Southern African Times) – As the violence escalates between Israel and the Islamic Hamas movement, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Israel’s action was “violating international laws” due to the airstrikes it launched against civilians.
“They show a total disregard for successive United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions that call for an end to the occupation of Palestinian land and for the fulfillment of the rights of the Palestinian people,” he said.
Ramaphosa said the continuing violence and attacks would have a negative impact on the lives of Palestinians who already live in appalling conditions.
“The senseless and continued Israeli bombardment of Gaza will have devastating consequences for more than two million people who have been suffering under an illegal Israeli blockade for 14 years. As is always the case, it is civilians who will bear the brunt, with their homes and livelihoods destroyed,” he said.
Tension between Israel and militant groups in the Gaza Strip continued for about a week as death toll in the coastal enclave climbed to over 190 while more than 1,200 others were injured.
While some countries have called for a cease-fire, the Israeli government vowed to continue with the attacks.
Ramaphosa called on both sides to show restraint and to respect human life.
