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Ramaphosa condemns Israel’s ‘genocide’ at UN, urges global recognition of Palestine
A bold stand for Palestinian recognition
In a forceful address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, calling on the global community to recognise Palestinian statehood. His remarks coincided with a historic wave of recognition by Western nations, including Britain, Australia, and Canada, with Portugal also set to follow.
“The world is appalled at the brutal acts of genocide and grave war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza, aimed at eradicating the Palestinians from that narrow strip of land,” Ramaphosa declared.
The president stressed that the viability of a two-state solution hinges on adherence to international law, including UN resolutions and the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinions.
South Africa reiterates its firm commitment to the creation of a contiguous Palestinian State existing peacefully and side by side with the State of Israel, along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.#UNGA80 🇺🇳 pic.twitter.com/u9smR4v757
Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 22, 2025
Annexation and the two-state solution
Ramaphosa warned that Israel’s intention to annex the Occupied Palestinian Territories further imperils peace prospects. He outlined concrete steps for restoring a two-state solution:
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Global recognition of Palestine and respect for its sovereignty.
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An immediate ceasefire and end to hostilities, including the release of hostages.
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Strict compliance with international law, UN resolutions, and ICJ decisions.
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Removal of barriers to peace, such as illegal settlements and the separation wall.
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Restoration of humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza.
“To restore the prospects of a two-state solution, we call for global recognition of Palestine and solidarity with its people,” Ramaphosa said.
Humanitarian access and global responsibility
The South African president underscored the urgent need for unhindered humanitarian aid, spanning air, land, and sea routes, to support civilians trapped in Gaza.
“This conflict has raged for almost as long as the United Nations has existed. It will be a blight on our collective conscience if self-determination, sovereignty and human rights continue to be denied to the Palestinian people.”
Ramaphosa’s speech marks a firm diplomatic stance at a time when Israel is under intense international scrutiny for the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians and the destruction of infrastructure in Gaza.
Global context and local resonance
The call for Palestinian recognition has sparked debate in South Africa, where support for Palestine has historically been strong. Social media reactions highlighted praise from civil society and Muslim organisations for Ramaphosa’s forthright condemnation, while critics stressed the delicate balance required in international diplomacy.
Political analysts note that South Africa’s leadership on this issue resonates deeply with the country’s own history of apartheid, framing the Palestinian struggle in a local moral and historical context.
“The international community must act now and in unison,” Ramaphosa concluded, urging a coordinated global response to prevent further suffering and uphold human rights.
As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, Ramaphosa’s speech serves as a call to conscience, highlighting the persistent urgency of justice, sovereignty, and humanitarian relief for Palestine.
{Source: The Citizen}
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