South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an immediate halt to what he described as Israel’s “barbaric war” against the people of Gaza. Speaking to Algeria’s parliament during an official visit on Friday, Ramaphosa condemned the ongoing violence and expressed solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.
“As nations that have experienced colonization and oppression, South Africa and Algeria stand united in supporting the Palestinian people’s right to freedom and independence,” Ramaphosa said.
The president strongly criticized the killing of civilians, including women and children, as well as the destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals in Gaza. He also decried the obstruction of humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave, calling these actions a “stain on the conscience of the world.”
“We cannot turn a blind eye to such injustice. The global community has a moral duty to intervene and stop this genocide,” he said.
Legal Action Against Israel
In late 2023, South Africa filed a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, accusing it of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. The case has been supported by several nations, including Türkiye, Nicaragua, Palestine, Spain, Mexico, Libya, and Colombia. Public hearings began earlier this year, with Ramaphosa reiterating the need for accountability.
“Israel must be held responsible for its crimes against the people of Gaza,” Ramaphosa said, urging the world to take a firm stance against what he called gross human rights violations.
Solidarity with Western Sahara
The South African president also voiced support for the people of Western Sahara in their ongoing fight for self-determination. He commended Algeria’s steadfast commitment to the cause, urging the international community to uphold its obligations to the region.
“We cannot ignore the struggle of the people of Western Sahara. Their right to determine their own future must be respected,” Ramaphosa stated.
A Call for Global Reform
As South Africa takes on the presidency of the G20, the first African nation to lead the group, Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of building a just and inclusive global system. He renewed calls for reforming the United Nations Security Council to make it more representative and accountable.
“We must push for a new world order rooted in justice, fairness, and inclusivity,” Ramaphosa said, stressing the need for global governance systems that reflect the interests of all nations.
He also highlighted the need to protect innocent civilians caught in conflict, urging the world to stand in solidarity with marginalized and vulnerable communities.
Advancing Africa’s Development Goals
Ramaphosa concluded by calling for African unity to accelerate social and economic development across the continent. He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and advancing Africa’s Agenda 2063.
“Together, we can build a future where peace, dignity, and prosperity are accessible to all Africans,” he said.
Ramaphosa’s remarks underscored his vision for a global order that prioritizes human rights, justice, and equitable development, while addressing urgent conflicts and humanitarian crises.