Ramaphosa calls for Gaza ceasefire, UN reform at BRICS summit
President Cyril Ramaphosa used South Africa's country statement at the 16th BRICS Summit to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Israel and Hamas have been at war since the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented assault on Israel on 7 October, with hundreds of gunmen infiltrating communities near the Gaza Strip.
Earlier this year, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take all measures to prevent genocide against the people of Gaza in a case brought by South Africa.
On Wednesday, Ramaphosa told over 30 world leaders that South Africa is concerned about the escalation of the conflict.
The BRICS bloc of countries includes Brazil, Russia, China, India, and South Africa, as well as newly minted member States Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Ramaphosa delivered the speech during a plenary session in Kazan.
"As the world bears witness to the continued plight of the Palestinian people, South Africa is compelled to emulate that spirit of solidarity. As a country, we understand the value of global support for a people’s right to self-determination and statehood.
“We are gravely concerned at the further escalation of a conflict that has already caused so much death and destruction," said Ramaphosa.
He called on the influential bloc to use its voice to advance global change – particularly on the resolution of international conflicts that require “a UN Security Council that is representative and inclusive”.
“We see from many conflicts raging across the world that the UN Security Council has not fulfilled its mandate to maintain international peace and security. It does not represent the interests of the global community and, therefore, does not have the means to give effect to the global desire for peace,” the president told the summit.
“Just as BRICS has a vital role in shaping a new multipolar world order, so too must it use its voice to advance change.
“We found consensus on the reform of the UN Security Council when we met in Johannesburg last year. Let us build on that foundation to develop an improved consensus that addresses the concerns and aspirations of all BRICS members,” said Ramaphosa.
He emphasised that the International Court of Justice had made it clear that the international community has a duty to prevent genocide by Israel.
"The countries of the world have a responsibility not to fund or facilitate Israel’s genocidal actions.
“As the UN General Assembly has now resolved, the countries of the world have a responsibility to promote the realisation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.
“Lasting peace and security will not be achieved until Palestinians have realised their aspirations for statehood, justice and freedom. Peace and security across the world require the collective will of the community of nations.”
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