South Africa urges UN members to recognize Palestinian statehood

South Africa called on all United Nations member states Monday to recognize Palestinian statehood and act in solidarity with the Palestinian people, as Pretoria continues its vocal advocacy for Palestinian rights at international forums. Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola delivered a forceful statement demanding an end to Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank.

Call for Action

"We continue to appeal for an end to Israel's unlawful occupation, an end to the ongoing genocide, together with efforts to permanently displace the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank," Lamola told the council. He reaffirmed South Africa's "unwavering support and solidarity with the Palestinian people," building on Pretoria's longstanding position linking Palestine's struggle to its own history of anti-apartheid resistance.

Defending Human Rights Mandates

Lamola also expressed concern over attacks on Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on occupied Palestinian territories, and other special procedures mandate holders. "Special procedures mandate holders play a key role promoting and protecting human rights and they must be protected," he said. The minister warned against attacks on multilateralism, unpredictable geopolitical dynamics, and erosion of the rules-based international order, affirming South Africa's commitment to "constructive dialogue and the defense of universal core values."

ICJ Case and Broader Commitment

South Africa, which filed a case at the International Court of Justice in December 2023 accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention, has since secured multiple provisional measures ordering Israel to prevent acts of genocide. The court continues to hear arguments as the death toll in Gaza surpasses 72,000, mostly women and children, with over 171,000 injured since October 2023. Lamola pledged that South Africa would use its Human Rights Council membership to combat discrimination, racism, and advance women's empowerment and gender equality, framing the Palestinian cause within its broader human rights agenda.