A group of pro-Palestinian supporters marched to Parliament in Cape Town on Friday to call on government to intensify diplomatic and economic pressure on Israel.
Known as International Quds Day, the march is held in various countries annually on the last Friday of Ramadan.
The marchers donned the colours of the Palestinian flag in a show of solidarity with its people. They also marched for those facing oppression and injustice across the world.
Organisers have called for the release of all political prisoners in Palestine. They’ve also appealed to government for an embargo on Israeli goods and services. Islamic Unity Convention leader, Achmad Cassiem, explains the significance of the march.
“There is a resistance building up within the borders of occupied Palestine, and that is very significant and it’s this time much stronger than the previous intifadas the uprisings that have taken place to add insult to injury Zionists have now moved their capital from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.”
In a memorandum handed over to parliament, speakers say democratic South Africa has a responsibility towards Palestine.
International Relations Portfolio Committee chairperson, Siphosezwe Masango says government will respond in writing to the group’s demands.
“Will be transmitted to the office of the speaker as well as the minister of international relations Honourable Lindiwe Sisulu who is out of the country is in New York and the Speaker has gone to attend the international parliamentary union in Russia I will right to them then of course they will make a response.”
International Quds Day was initiated by the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979 to express support for the Palestinian cause and to oppose Zionism.
