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South African Government Condemns Assassination
of Hamas Leader, Abdelaziz Rantissi
The South African government joins the international
community in expressing its outrage and condemnation
of the assassination of Abdelaziz Rantissi, the leader
of Hamas in Gaza City on Saturday, 17 April 2004.
The South African government views the assassination
of the Hamas leader as an act of provocation that will
only fuel the cycle of violence and counter-violence
that is fast destroying any prospects for peace in the
region.
The assassination of Palestinian leaders and complicit
consent to and endorsement of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's
plans to set on course a unilateral plan of action that
most fundamentally affects the rights of the Palestinian
people weakens any prospect for a negotiated settlement
to this conflict.
In addition the South African government reiterates
its condemnation of suicide bombings and calls on the
Palestinians to maintain restraint and not provide a
pre-text on which further acts of violence and destruction
will be carried out against them and undermine their
just cause.
The South African government calls on the United Nations,
members of the Quartet and the international community
to ensure that Israel complies with international law
and to not engage in activities that are not conducive
to creating a climate where negotiations for a lasting
peace can occur.
For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on
082 990 4853.
Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
18 April 2004
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