The SA Jewish community stands in solidarity with Israel on the anniversary of the October 7 Hamas terror attack and condemns President Ramaphosa's comments
7 October 2024
A year ago, on October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists launched an unprovoked and barbaric attack on Israel, inflicting untold suffering upon innocent civilians. The assault left over 1,200 dead, countless others subjected to horrific violence, and more than 250 civilians taken hostage—over a hundred of whom still languish in unimaginable conditions in Gaza's underground tunnels.
Today, the South African Jewish community stands united in solidarity with Israel and Jews worldwide. We gather to honour the memory of those lost, to demand justice for the victims, and to reassert Israel’s right to defend herself against relentless existential threats.
As we mark this sombre anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the countless ordinary South Africans who have stood by the Jewish community during this difficult time. Your support, understanding, and commitment to truth and justice have been a source of strength and hope.
We also urge all South Africans and political organisations to respect the Jewish community's right to commemorate and mourn in peace. President Cyril Ramaphosa's October 7 statement, which effectively shifts blame onto Israel for Hamas' atrocities, is not only shocking but deeply offensive. His gaslighting and divisive rhetoric betray his role as president of all South Africans, including our Jewish community.
We are deeply concerned by recent directives from the ANC calling for activities on October 7 that disregard the trauma and loss suffered by Israeli civilians. Such actions not only demonstrate a lack of empathy, but also risk exacerbating tensions within our diverse society. We call on all South Africans to instead join us in remembering all innocent victims and working towards a future of mutual understanding and peace in the region.
SAZF National Chairman Rowan Polovin urges the South African government to reconsider its stance on Israel. "The South African government finds itself on the wrong side of history, aligning with anti-Western countries and terrorist groupings that provoke hate against democratic nations and destabilise the Middle East through terror," Polovin states.
We implore the government to use its contacts to assist in securing the release of hostages and to recognise Israel's legitimate right to self-defence—a need underscored by Iran's recent missile attack threatening hundreds of thousands of Israeli civilians.
"As we commemorate October 7," Polovin concludes, "the SAZF reflects on Israel's resilience and the unity of the Jewish people in the face of unfathomable adversity. Israel stands as a beacon of strength, determined to persevere despite ongoing threats to its existence. We choose life, we choose peace, and we remain hopeful for a future where Israel can live in peace and harmony with her neighbours. Am Yisrael Chai. The nation of Israel lives."
Statement issued by the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) on behalf of Rowan Polovin, National Chairman, 7 October 2024
