Statement on the Raid of the Palestinian Prison in Jericho and the Serious Excalation of Violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories

The South African Government is deeply concerned at the continued actions of the Israeli Defence Force that have led to a serious escalation of violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

In this vein, the government calls on the Israeli Government to cease with activities such as the illegal seizure of and raid on the Palestinian prison in Jericho. Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad said "such actions are against international law and only serve to weaken any initiatives aimed at promoting a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and will strengthen the extremists on both sides".

The Deputy Minister welcomed the Secretary General of the United Nations' call for "the immediate release of those who have been kidnapped and full respect of the safety of international personnel on the ground."

The South African Government furthermore calls on the Israeli government to stop the continued Israeli practice of extra-judicial assassinations as they are also in direct contravention of International Law.

As stated by Deputy Minister Pahad, "any excessive use of force can only serve to ignite a renewed cycle of violence at a time when all parties to the conflict should concentrate their efforts at maintaining peace and calm, and creating an environment conducive for talks". He also called on the Palestinian people "to avoid violence and attacks against foreigners as this will only give a pretext for massive Israeli reaction".

Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag x 152
Pretoria
0001

17 March 2006