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Statement on the Recent Suicide Bombings
in Israel, Which Threatens the Collapse of the Cease-fire
The South African Government expresses its deep concern
over the recent suicide bombings in the Israeli town
of Rosh Ha'ayin and outside the settlement of Ariel
on 12 August 2003, which caused the death of two Israeli
citizens. The South African Government reiterates its
condemnation of the use of violence and deeply regrets
the loss of life as a result.
The use of violence as a pressure tactic only aims
to weaken the Road Map, as it threatens the very continuation
of the process underway. What is necessary is for both
parties to address the underlying cause of these latest
events.
Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad has expressed his concern
about the recent lull over issues driving the implementation
of the Road Map. "We are entering a period of uncertainty,
which is being fuelled by inaction and constant redefining
of conditions and expectations that are otherwise clearly
spelt-out in the Road Map. Both parties have clear obligations
as set out in the Road Map and I call on both parties
to act in a manner that is supportive to the other and
not in a manner that makes it impossible to proceed",
the Deputy Minister said.
The South African Government is of the view that the
construction of the "Security Wall" is a clear
violation of International Law. The construction of
the wall, together with the recent provocations by the
IDF and Israel's lack of support to the Palestinian
Leadership in their efforts to ensure progress through
the implementation of the cease-fire, only aim to weaken
the Road Map. "The recent delay tactics we have
witnessed are having a very negative effect on the whole
process.
The situation on the ground has not seen equaled calm
in over two years, and yet there seems to be no real
progress on the implementation of the obligations both
sides have agreed to", the Deputy Minister said.
"What is required are urgent steps to be taken
by the international community, to ensure that the Road
Map gains momentum" he added.
The South African Government urges both sides to guard
against the return to violence and to act with restraint
and resilience in pursuing the aims and objectives of
the Road Map.
For further information contact
· Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853
· Nomfanelo Kota on 082 377 7208
Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
13 August 2003
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