Naledi Pandor: SA Condemns Violence but Won't Sever Diplomatic Relations with Israel
- Minister Naledi Pandor stated recently in Parliament that although South Africa has condemned the acts of the State of Israel, Mzansi will not be cutting ties with it
- The International Relations and Cooperations Minister had been answering a question from Economic Freedom Fighters MP Portia Msane
- Msane wanted to know where South Africa stands on the violence between Israel and Palestine and the innocent people who lost their lives
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International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor revealed that the country will not be cutting ties with Israel. Pandor had been answering a Parliamentary question where she reinforced the South African Government's position on the issues being faced.
Pandor stated that Mzansi released quite a few media statements in which the violence and other actions of the Israeli government were condemned. The minister explained that Mr Sisa Ngombane, SA's ambassador to the State of Israel, had been recalled.
The South African government, Pandor said, will remain seized with the 'modalities' related to the country's relation with the State of Israel. She added that her department will communicate further actions that may still be under consideration.
Source: Getty Images
Pandor addresses government
Pandor's speech delivered on 3 June stated:
"Nothing good can come out of conflict. The tragedy of the recent bombardment of Palestine is a testimonial to the cruel effects of war and conflict. More than 75 000 Palestinians were displaced resulting in about 243 casualties, including 64 Palestinian children and 38 women. Israel also suffered casualties. We call on all in the Middle East to intensify peace efforts."
EFF makes request
According to News24, Pandor was responding to a question by Economic Freedom Fighters MP Portia Msane. Msane requested an answer regarding South Africa's response to the killing of a number of Palestinian citizens by the State of Israel.
The report continued by explaining that the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was announced after almost two weeks of brutal killings and violence in the Gaza Strip.
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Mzansi's stance on the matter
Briefly News recently reported Pandor said that Mzansi has to reconsider its engagement with Israel following the deadly clash between the country and Palestine.
The bloody conflict in Gaza claimed the lives of close to 250 Palestinians and at least 12 Israelis, according to reports. Pandor called on the international community to stop the impunity while Mzansi supports the International Criminal Court in its planned investigation into the latest conflict.
South Africa has already withdrawn its ambassador to Israel in protest against the country's government and in support of Palestine. The minister said Palestinians were trapped and needed all the help, according to reports.
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Source: Briefly News
