Ramaphosa calls for Israel-Hamas ceasefire, says SA ready to mediate
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa stands ready with the international community to mediate in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
He's called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to assist the many civilians caught up in the war.
The president has extended his condolences to all victims of the violence, calling for its immediate end.
"We remain gravely concerned at the devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the atrocities committed against civilian populations.
“We call for the immediate cessation of violence and the exercise of restraint. It is vital that all those who require urgent humanitarian assistance are provided with the basic life-supporting necessities and that human suffering is ameliorated."
Ramaphosa says international efforts to achieve lasting peace must be accelerated – and should include a viable Palestinian State that exists alongside Israel.
Around 150 Israelis, foreigners and dual nationals were abducted to the Gaza Strip by Hamas militants as part of the Saturday attack that killed more than 1,200 people in Israeli towns and communities around the enclave.
Israel has, in turn, launched a withering air campaign against Hamas militants in the blockaded Gaza Strip, killing around 1,200 people.
In recent days Israel announced a "complete siege" on Gaza, cutting off water, fuel and electricity supplies. The Palestinian territory's sole power plant shut down on Wednesday after running out of fuel.
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