Cairo Summit for Peace: President Cyril Ramaphosa Calls for Immediate Action in Gaza-Israel Conflict

Cairo, Egypt, October 21, 2023 – In a passionate address at the Cairo Summit for Peace, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa joined world leaders in expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict between Gaza and Israel. The summit, hosted by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, aimed to raise global awareness of the situation and establish a roadmap for a meaningful solution to the crisis.

In his opening remarks, President Ramaphosa underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the conflict has resulted in unprecedented human suffering. He made it clear that South Africa firmly believes that the attack on civilians in Israel, the prolonged siege of Gaza, forced relocations, and indiscriminate use of force through bombing represent grave violations of international law and a challenge to our shared humanity.

President Ramaphosa’s key points and calls for action included:

1. Immediate Cessation of Hostilities: He urged all parties involved to cease hostilities immediately, emphasizing the need to put an end to the violence that has plagued the region.
2. Release of Hostages: The South African President called for the release of hostages held during the conflict, a critical step toward de-escalation.
3. Lifting of the Gaza Siege: President Ramaphosa advocated for the lifting of the Gaza siege to alleviate the suffering of its inhabitants.
4. Humanitarian Aid: He stressed the urgent requirement for humanitarian aid to be delivered at a significant scale to the people of Gaza.
5. UN-Led Negotiation Process: South Africa called for the United Nations to lead negotiations in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.
6. Support for Peace: President Ramaphosa affirmed the international community’s responsibility to support peace efforts and create conditions conducive to negotiation and dialogue.

The South African leader drew parallels between the Palestinian struggle and his own country’s history. He highlighted the oppression South Africans faced under apartheid and how it was only through unwavering determination, courageous leadership, and a commitment to peace that they overcame those challenges. In this context, he expressed that peace is the only path forward for Israel and Palestine.

President Ramaphosa also urged restraint and called on all state actors to refrain from providing weapons to either side in the conflict. He expressed deep concerns that the Israeli government’s response to the attacks on its citizens might further escalate the decades-long conflict, potentially involving other countries in the region, a scenario he implored should be avoided at all costs.

The South African leader reiterated that the only way to achieve lasting peace is by fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people, including their human rights, dignity, and statehood. He underscored that this approach aligns with United Nations decisions that guarantee statehood for both Israel and Palestine based on the 1967 borders.

In conclusion, President Ramaphosa called on the international community to stand united for a ceasefire and a sustainable solution to the conflict. He emphasized that this unified stance is essential to achieving peace, justice, and human rights for all parties involved.

The Cairo Summit for Peace continues to bring together world leaders to address one of the most pressing conflicts of our time, as they work collectively to seek a path to a more peaceful and just future for the people of Gaza and Israel.