International support for the Palestinian cause continues to be expressed across the world, and South Africa is no exception. The ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has displayed its unwavering support for Gazans since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas on October 7, 2023. For the ANC, this cause is historic and echoes the struggle led by the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.
The South African government, while seeking to maintain a neutral position in its international relations, did not hesitate to condemn the escalation of violence but without directly naming Hamas. Instead, the ANC and the government focus on the conditions that led to this situation, notably denouncing an “apartheid regime” imposed on the Palestinians.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences to victims on both sides of the conflict, emphasizing the country’s desire to maintain balance in its statements. However, a photo of the president wearing a keffiyeh, a strong symbol of the Palestinian cause, made the front page of the Sunday Times newspaper, symbolically demonstrating the ANC’s support for Palestine.
In addition to the government and the ruling party, other mobilizations are also underway in South Africa. The radical party The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) organizes a rally in front of the Israeli embassy, even calling for its closure. For its part, the country’s Jewish community also mobilized, denouncing the hostility of the ANC and recalling the commitment of many South African Jews to the side of the ANC during the fight against apartheid.
Interestingly, South African society is deeply divided on this issue, with divergent views represented in the political arena. While the ANC supports Palestine, the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, is closer to Israel and believes that the latter has the right to defend itself against Hamas attacks.
In short, South Africa plays an important role in international solidarity with Palestine, drawing on its own history of struggle against apartheid. This position raises debates and divisions within South African society, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the Palestinian issue across the world.