The South African government, represented by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aziz Pahad, summoned Israeli ambassador Tova Herzl, spoke sternly to her and demanded immediate action from Israel.
Why was the same action not taken with Zimbabwe? Put differently, why did the government not use its “silent diplomacy” to try to bring the Israeli government to its senses?
The government does not hesitate to act strongly on the diplomatic terrain when it deems it necessary towards a country like Israel, thousands of kilometres away. But nothing could move the government to act strongly against Zimbabwe, even though the crisis there had direct negative results for South Africa.
Without doubt, some of the Israeli and Palestinian actions justify reaction from South Africa. It is, however, conspicuous that the government does not think it necessary to reprimand Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat over the suicide bomb attacks.
This reeks of double standards, with the African National Congress’s preferences showing clearly.
Abroad, it is widely accepted that South Africa plays a leading role in Africa. Double standards and ill-considered actions in its foreign policy will cause South Africa to lose its credibility. To regain that would be almost impossible. Dr Pieter Mulder, MP, Leader: Freedom Front, Parliament
There is little doubt that the events in Palestine signify the most crucial point in the 18-month intifada. Only by sheer force and with the total support of the United States can Israel hold on to its settlements and occupation of the West bank and Gaza Strip.
The vicious panic the Israelis are showing in their attacks on journalists, foreigners and medical relief staff reveals what the world continues to deny: genocide.
Mild international condemnations do not mean anything to Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. Undoubtedly, he has carried out his criminal attacks only after receiving a green light from Washington.
With this US support, Arab cowardice, international silence and media adoption of the Israeli story, the Israeli government is basking in glory and Palestinian blood. Its campaign, waged beneath the slogan of “uprooting terrorism”, is nothing more than an attempt by Sharon to buoy his popularity with the Israeli public, who had been unconvinced by his version of “peace” and “security” until the beginning of this campaign. Mxolisi Zuma, Palestine Solidarity Committee, Gauteng