South African Government Statement on Israeli Violations of the UNSC Resolution 1701

21 August 2006

Pretoria - The South African Government joins the international community's condemnation of the Israeli commando raid at the Bekaa Valley on 19 August 2006.

In this regard, South Africa echoes the sentiments of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan that the commando raid is a violation of the letter and spirit of cessation of hostilities as laid out in Security Council Resolution 1701.

The South African Government is of the firm view that such actions subtract rather than add to the momentum created by the international community to bring about a lasting solution to the situation in the Middle East.

In this regard, the South African Government welcomes efforts by the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to consult with both the Israeli authorities and Lebanon with a view to ensuring full compliance with UNSC Resolution 1701 and to avoid actions that may lead to an escalation of violence and make it more difficult for peace to hold.

The South African Government urges the international community to act swiftly in deploying the UN peacekeeping force to ensure compliance with Resolution 1701.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
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