President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with the family of the late Captain Daniel Perez, a South African-born soldier who was killed after being held hostage for more than 160 days.
Perez, who was 22, was serving in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) when he was captured during the conflict in October 2023. He was later killed after spending more than five months in captivity.
Born and raised in Johannesburg, Perez moved to Israel with his family in 2014. His remains were eventually released to Israel under a negotiated ceasefire agreement, before he was laid to rest at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem in 2025.
Ramaphosa Meets Perez Family After Remains Repatriated
The meeting between Ramaphosa and the Perez family followed government interventions to facilitate the release of the soldier’s remains by Hamas.
According to Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the Presidency, Ramaphosa conveyed his condolences to the family during the meeting.
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Magwenya said the President also reaffirmed his support for an inclusive and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.
“The South African government remains engaged in assisting all South Africans, irrespective of race or religion, who are ensnared in conflict zones as well as assisting other foreign nationals where such support is requested,” said Magwenya.
South African Government Assists Citizens In Conflict Zones
Magwenya said the government’s efforts are not limited to the conflict involving Israel and Palestine, with interventions also taking place in other areas affected by war.
“This includes facilitating the release of South Africans trapped in a war in Syria, citizens who were sold to Russian mercenaries and the safe return of Ukrainian children.”
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Perez’s death and the subsequent efforts to secure the release of his remains come as the South African government continues to engage on matters involving citizens caught up in international conflicts.
The Presidency said these engagements form part of efforts to assist South Africans affected by conflicts abroad, while also providing support to foreign nationals where such assistance is requested.
