President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the victims in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling for the immediate and unconditional opening of humanitarian corridors.

Following an escalation of hostilities on Saturday, over a thousand people were left dead on both sides.

“Our thoughts are with all the victims’ families and loved ones during this perilous period of fighting. We remain gravely concerned at the devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the atrocities committed against civilian populations,” said Ramaphosa.

He noted that it was vital that all those who required urgent humanitarian assistance were provided with basic life supporting necessities.

The President called for the immediate cessation of violence and for restraint.

He further urged the international community to accelerate its support for lasting peace that sees a Palestinian State existing in peace alongside Israel, within the 1967 internationally recognised borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“South Africa stands ready to work with the international community and to share our experience in mediation and conflict resolution as we have done on the continent and around the world,” said Ramaphosa.