Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
2 October 2000
The South African Government expresses its shock over the clashes between the Israeli armed forces and Palestinians in Jerusalem, Palestine and even inside Israel, over recent days. The Government condemns the large-scale loss of life owing to the excessive and disproportionate use of force by the Israeli armed forces.
The South African Government extends its condolences to all the Arab and Jewish bereaved families and wishes a speedy recovery to those who have suffered injuries.
The provocative actions by certain Israeli elements, who seem intent on scoring political points and provoking the anger and resentment of Palestinians, inter alia by violating the sanctity of the Holy Places, have a very harmful effect on the Middle East Peace Process. The latest example was the visit to the Haram al-Sharif /Temple Mount by Mr Ariel Sharon, leader of the Likud, against the advice of some in the Israeli Government and other international role-players, which directly precipitated the latest occurrence of violence.
The South African Government therefore calls on the Israeli Government to act in accordance with its stated desire to achieve peace and to restrain those elements. It further calls on Israel to cease its measures of collective punishment against Palestinians, to restore the sanctity of the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount and to allow free access to it by Muslim worshippers.
South Africa still believes that the leadership in Palestine and Israel are committed to seeking a peaceful settlement of the conflict between them and, together with them and all peace-loving peoples of the world, we were looking forward to a breakthrough in the negotiations.
In spite of this setback to the peace process, the South African Government reiterates its support for the continuation of negotiations conducted freely and in good faith. It is only the speedy resolution of the Final Status issues that can assure lasting peace in the Middle East.
For futher information, please contact Dumisani Rasheleng
Office No. (012) 351 0067 / 0126
Cell No. 083 709 8166