Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma this week met with concerned groups on Palestine, said the Presidency on Friday.
President Zuma met with a group of concerned citizens representing South African civil society including the National Coalition 4 Palestine, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), the African National Congress Youth League (ANC Youth League), People Against Suffering and Oppression (PASSOP), Young Communist League of South Africa (YCL), UCT Students Representative Council, the Southern Africa Muslim Judicial Council and the StopTheJNF.
“The President listened to their concerns about what is happening in Gaza, in Palestine. He will also meet with the South African Jewish Board of Deputies soon to discuss the same issue,” said Presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj.
The conflict in Gaza has left more than 1 300 Palestinians dead and 6 000 injured, according to the United Nations. More than 80% of those killed have been civilians.
The crisis in Gaza takes place against the backdrop of decades of instability, poverty and vulnerability resulting from repeated outbreaks of hostilities and the on-going blockade on land, air and sea.
“President Zuma is also currently engaging the leadership of Israel/Palestine and the Middle East as well, given South Africa's concern about peace in that region,” added Maharaj.
In July, Cabinet expressed great concern over the escalation of violence between Israel and the Palestinian territories.
“Cabinet reiterates President Jacob Zuma’s call on the Israeli government to stop its ground and air offensive, which continues to cause loss of life and a devastating humanitarian crisis,” said Communications Minister Faith Muthambi at the time. – SAnews.gov.za
