South African Government pressure on the Israeli Government to open the Gaza Border to allow for the passage of Humanitarian Aid and other Supplies to the Residents of Gaza

QUOTE

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY 

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

QUESTION NO: 1268

PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 11 OF 26 APRIL 2010

Mr KS Mubu (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:

1. Whether the Government is putting any pressure on the Israeli government to open the Gaza border to allow for the passage of humanitarian aid and other supplies to the residents of Gaza; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

2. Whether the Government intends to establish a consulate/embassy in Gaza; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY:

1. Yes.  The issue of the continued closure of the Gaza border by Israel is addressed in all engagements with the Israeli authorities by this Department.  The ongoing closure has also been condemned in newsmedia statements, as well as in statements delivered at the United Nations.

2. The SA Representative Office to Palestine in Ramallah maintains office premises in Gaza for use by officials of the diplomatic Mission when visiting the territory.

UNQOUTE