Kuala lumpur: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed approval on behalf of the South African government for the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas. The announcement was made during a public lecture at the University of Malay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where President Ramaphosa was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in International Relations.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa praised the ceasefire deal, which was brokered by President Donald Trump with support from various Middle Eastern countries and beyond. The agreement includes the return of hostages, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and the resumption of humanitarian assistance. However, President Ramaphosa expressed concern over ongoing assaults on Gaza and the West Bank, which he believes undermine the ceasefire.
The President urged the international community to ensure the ceasefire leads to Palestinian statehood and self-determination. He emphasized the importance of pursuing a t
wo-state solution based on the 1967 borders, allowing a Palestinian state to coexist peacefully with Israel.
He highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, stating that its people are facing genocide after enduring decades of dispossession, repression, and oppression. President Ramaphosa called for action, citing the suffering caused by civilian casualties, forced displacement, and the destruction of essential infrastructure.
President Ramaphosa also acknowledged Malaysia’s support for the Palestinian cause and its advocacy for a two-state solution. He commended Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for backing South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and for Malaysia’s leadership within the Hague Group.
The President noted the shared commitment of South Africa and Malaysia to social justice and global governance reforms, including changes to the United Nations Security Council to better reflect the needs of the Global South and fulfill its role as a guarantor of international
peace and security.