Tuesday, March 19, 2024, the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) facilitated a dialogue with South African Foreign Minister, Dr. Naledi Pandor, focusing on Palestine and potential paths forward. We were joined by Jewish Voice for Peace – DC Metro Chapter and Churches for Middle East Peace, engaging in conversations about the efforts of American organizations to amplify and advocate for Palestinian human rights and an immediate ceasefire.
In January, Minister Pandor led South Africa’s delegation to the Hague to hear the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) landmark ruling on South Africa’s case against Israel, where the ICJ ordered Israel to take all measures within its power to prevent its troops from committing genocide and take steps to improve the humanitarian situation of Palestinians in Gaza. She has been fearless in her advocacy for Palestine, boldly calling on the international community to stop funding and facilitating Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
“We who believe in freedom cannot rest until freedom comes to Palestine. Now is the time for sustained resistance to genocide and occupation, and strategic reimagination of global institutions.”
– South African Foreign Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor
Her inspiring words underscore the pressing need to address the continuous bombardment of Gaza. The unyielding attacks by the Israeli government, combined with restricted aid, have resulted in dire conditions for Palestinians, especially those observing Ramadan. In Rafah, the looming possibility of a ground invasion intensifies the existing humanitarian crisis, pushing innocent civilians to the brink of famine.
As we relentlessly strive for an immediate ceasefire and justice for Palestine, MPAC proudly honors Foreign Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor for her longstanding commitment to protecting the people of Palestine and advocating for an immediate ceasefire.
“The longer you take to address the demands of a struggle, the more violent and vicious the struggle becomes.”
– South African Foreign Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor
MPAC remains steadfast in our efforts to hold the Biden Administration accountable for their complicity in the actions of the Israeli government, and in our efforts to advocate for the human rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.
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