The Government of the Republic of South Africa was saddened at the news of three pipe bomb explosions detonated in Netanya, Israel on Sunday 7 November 1999. The thoughts of the people of South Africa go out to those who were injured by this despicable act and it is our hope that they will recover speedily and fully. South Africa remains convinced that violent actions of this type serve only to vindicate the earnest and brave steps which have been taken thus far by the Palestinians and Israel alike in their quest for a lasting peace. The South African Government therefore calls on both sides to continue their efforts at achieving a just and comprehensive peace in the region and not to allow actions such as the cowardly bombing in Netanya to undermine their r esolve towards reaching a peaceful accommodation.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria
8 NOVEMBER 1999