PRETORIA – South Africa has condemned the recent Israeli bombing near a Jordanian field hospital in Gaza, which resulted in injuries to several hospital staff members. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) issued a statement on Thursday night expressing grave concern over the incident, which occurred as hospital staff were treating Palestinian citizens injured by Israel’s bombardment.
According to South African Government News Agency, The DIRCO statement highlighted the continuous targeting of medical facilities, schools, and holy sites in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the severe impact on civilians who seek refuge and protection in these places. Among the casualties of the Israeli siege was Ahmed Abbasi, Head of the Gift of the Givers Foundation office in Gaza, and his brother. Abbasi was reportedly targeted by the Israel Defence Force (IDF) while returning from morning prayer on Thursday.
South Africa strongly denounced the killing of civilians and aid workers, maintaining that there is no justification for the bombardment of non-combatants and the destruction of civilian sites. The department underscored Israel’s responsibility as the occupying power to protect civilians in Gaza, condemning the endangerment of Palestinian lives seeking refuge from intense bombardment.
The department referenced the International Humanitarian Law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, which mandates that health establishments should not be attacked. This protection extends to the wounded and sick, as well as to medical staff and emergency vehicles. DIRCO called for accountability for those responsible for the bombardment of non-combatants, medical facilities, and other civilian sites, suggesting that such actions may constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and possibly genocide.
In line with the United Nations General Assembly’s resolution, South Africa called for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors for essential supplies. The country also urged the United Nations to deploy a rapid protection force to safeguard the civilian population in Gaza.
Furthermore, South Africa advocated for enhanced peace efforts to revive a political process leading to the establishment of a viable Palestinian state, coexisting in peace with Israel within internationally recognized borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This approach aligns with relevant UN Resolutions, international law, and internationally agreed parameters.