Lerato Mbhiza
Minister of International Relations Dr Naledi Pandor has welcomed the United Nations Security Council’s resolution on a ceasefire in Gaza for the month of Ramadan.
The UN’s legally binding text also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages while emphasising the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian access to civilians in the entire Gaza Strip.
Minister Pandor elaborates further on the UN Security Council resolution by saying “South Africa has called for a ceasefire many many weeks ago and we are very pleased that at last the Security Council has agreed on a resolution calling for a ceasefire for a long-term period during this month of Ramadan. But also proposing that work should begin toward a permanent ceasefire. I think this is a welcomed resolution.”
It is now the responsibility of the United Nations Security Council to ensure that there is compliance with the resolution, which is binding on the parties, Pandor said.
“South Africa remains concerned that in the over five months, since the conflict began, thousands have lost their lives, including over 13 000 children,” she said.
“As Resolution 2728 notes, there is an urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip”
It is therefore vital that the parties comply with the Security Council demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale, in line with international humanitarian law, as well as Resolution 2712 (2023) and 2720 (2023)”.
The Economic Freedom Fighters EFF also welcomed the UN Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the month of Ramadan.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Tambo said this significant move, aimed at establishing a sustainable ceasefire and facilitating humanitarian assistance, is a crucial step towards alleviating the suffering of the people in Gaza.
“The resolution, which received overwhelming support with 14 members voting in favour, signals a collective commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. The unanimous agreement highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza”
Currently, 32,226 Palestinians in Gaza, predominantly women and children, have been killed since October 7, 2023, with 74,518 others enduring injuries.
The conflict has forcibly displaced 85% of the territory’s population, decimated vital infrastructure, and exacerbated conditions, leading to starvation and famine due to grossly inadequate aid deliveries.
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