Amid Israel’s continued attack on Gaza, South Africa’s International Relations Minister, Naledi Pandor, has once again clarified the country’s stance on Hamas. In response to written Parliamentary questions, Pandor emphasized that South Africa does not consider the Palestinian military group Hamas as a terrorist organization.
This reaffirmation comes amidst a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began in October 2023 when Hamas killed approximately 1,200 people in southern Israel. Since then, Israel has responded with air and ground strikes, resulting in the deaths of over 30,000 Palestinians.
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The Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament (MP), Greg Krumbock, raised the issue with Pandor, questioning whether her department considers Hamas as the legitimate government of the people of Gaza. Krumbock pointed out that certain countries, such as the United States and the European Union, have designated Hamas as a terrorist group.
Pandor, however, clarified that South Africa’s position on Hamas aligns with the United Nations. She emphasized that the country maintains “open lines of communication” with all Palestinian political formations, including Fatah and Hamas, among others.
This approach reflects South Africa’s commitment to engaging with various stakeholders in the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Furthermore, Pandor addressed claims made in a separate written reply that South Africa had received financial support or resources to pursue its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
She firmly denied these allegations, stating that South Africa is not the “legal arm” of Hamas. By rejecting these claims, Pandor sought to dispel any misconceptions or doubts regarding the country’s motivations and actions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
South Africa’s position on Hamas as a non-terrorist organization is rooted in its commitment to international norms and principles.
While other countries may have designated Hamas as a terrorist group, South Africa aligns itself with the United Nations, which does not classify Hamas as such. This position reflects the country’s support for the Palestinian cause and its belief in the importance of dialogue and engagement in resolving conflicts.
It is worth noting that South Africa’s stance on Hamas does not imply an endorsement of violence or any specific actions carried out by the group. Rather, it signifies a recognition of the political complexities and historical context surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
By maintaining open lines of communication with all Palestinian political formations, South Africa aims to contribute to the peace process and facilitate meaningful dialogue between the parties involved.
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, South Africa’s position on Hamas remains unchanged. The country will continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on international law and the principles of justice and equality.
By emphasizing its commitment to dialogue and engagement, South Africa seeks to play a constructive role in pursuing lasting peace and stability in the region.
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