Kampala, Uganda: South Africa has renewed its urgent call for an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire” in Gaza, Palestine, as the devastating conflict enters its fourth month with no end in sight. President Cyril Ramaphosa issued the plea at the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation and the inadequacy of international responses.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict escalated in October 2023, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack that claimed over 1,200 lives. The Israeli response has been disproportionate, with estimates suggesting over 20,000 Palestinian casualties and 1.9 million internally displaced within Gaza.
“The suffering of the Palestinian people is unconscionable,” Ramaphosa declared. “South Africa demands an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages. We urge the resumption of talks towards a just solution that ends this cycle of violence.”
Beyond the immediate ceasefire, Ramaphosa emphasized the need for unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. He pointed to South Africa’s financial contributions to UN agencies and the grassroots efforts of South African citizens and NGOs as insufficient in the face of the crisis.
The President also took aim at the perceived inadequacy of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, in maintaining international peace and security. He called for a “fair and equitable” system of global governance capable of addressing threats and harm effectively.
“The world is fractured, divided between East and West,” Ramaphosa stated. “In this context, the Non-Aligned Movement must remain steadfast in its independence, advocating for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.”
He outlined a series of priorities for the NAM, including:
- Supporting the right to self-determination for Palestinians and Western Saharans.
- Lifting economic sanctions against Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.
- Reaffirming access to nuclear materials for peaceful purposes.
- Upholding the centrality of international law in conflict resolution.
- Combating terrorism and addressing its root causes.
- Alleviating and eradicating poverty and underdevelopment.
“We must achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and address global challenges together,” Ramaphosa concluded. “This demands reform of global governance institutions, including the UN, and ensuring that the voices of Africa and the Global South are heard.”