October 7 attack: Ramaphosa amplifies peace calls as civilians bear the brunt of raging Middle East war

JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa says escalating tensions in the Middle East have the potential to ignite a war in which civilians will bear the greatest brunt. 

Ramaphosa once again called for a ceasefire as Monday marks a year since over 1,000 Israelis were killed in an attack by Palestinian group Hamas, sparking a retaliation that has led to the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians.  

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Writing in his weekly newsletter on Monday, Ramaphosa said while South Africa felt the plight of families whose relatives were still being held in Gaza, it was also appealing for prisoners unlawfully detained in Israel to be released.  
 
Ramaphosa said there was an urgent need for action to stave off starvation and disease in Gaza.  

He said considerable resources would be needed to start rebuilding infrastructure, housing and social services.

Later this month, government will file a memorial with the International Court of Justice, which will contain detailed evidence to support arguments that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians. 
 
Ramaphosa has called on Israel to immediately implement the court’s provisional orders handed down in January, March and May.  

He said until the occupation ends, and a lasting solution is found to protect the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians, the region will remain a tinderbox of potential conflict and war.