8 October 2002
The South African Heads of Mission from the Middle East and the Gulf, at a two-day workshop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), expressed their concern at the dangerously escalating levels of violence being perpetrated by the Israeli Defence Forces against civilians in Palestine.
This issue was also raised by Deputy Minister Pahad during consultations with senior government officials in the UAE - viz. the Minister of Planning, Humaid bin Ahmad Al Mualla; the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullah Rashed Al Nuaimi; and the Director in the Office of President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Ali Salem Al Kaabi.
Deputy Minister Pahad expressed shock and disappointment at the latest Israeli tank and helicopter attacks in Gaza that have resulted in the deaths of at least 14 civilians and over 100 casualties.
He condemned such inhuman military action "at a time when the Quartet is intensifying its efforts that are supported by the vast majority of Palestinian people, to find a peaceful solution to the situation in the region."
The Deputy Minister called on Palestinians, "not to retaliate against these latest Israeli army actions which because these would only give the perpetrators of the violence another pretext upon which to continue their military activities against the Palestinian people.
We reiterate our view that there can be no military solution and call on the international community to act more decisively to end the violence and ensure that unconditional negotiations are started without delay.
A negotiated solution which brings into being a Palestinian state alongside and Israeli one, within secure borders is the only solution to attain peace, stability and security for the Palestinians, the Israelis and the region."
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs