Anti-Israel demonstration hits Sandton
SANDTON - Pro-Palestinian demonstrators made their voices heard on 1 July outside the Israel Trade Offices on West Street.
Demonstrators gathered at the gates of the Israeli Trade Office on West Street on 1 July to voice their anger at what they called the ‘Israeli apartheid regime’.
About 100 protesters were seen waving pro-Palestinian flags and posters, and anti-Israel posters, and calling for an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory as well as the boycott of Israeli products.
Aayesha Soni, vice chair of Media Review Network – South Africa, an organisation that aims to dispel the myths and stereotypes about Islam and Muslims and to foster bridges of understanding among the diverse people of our country, attended the demonstration in a show of solidarity.
“Just as the poor look to the rich, and the rich have an obligation to the poor, we are the free and we have an obligation and a duty towards the oppressed. This extends specifically to our Palestinian brothers and sisters. That is the essence of Al Quds Day, (an annual event held on the last Friday of Ramadan that was initiated by the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979 to express support for the Palestinians and oppose Zionism and Israel’s existence), and that’s what we are here for,” said Soni.
Former Minister of Defence, Water Affairs and Forestry and anti-apartheid activist, Ronnie Kasrils also attended the demonstration. “The days of Israeli oppression is coming to an end. I am very proud to be part of this gathering. These gatherings do many positive things. They send out a message of solidarity. We stand with the people of Palestine,” said Kasrils.
Read: WATCH: Expect traffic delays in Sandton due to peaceful demonstration
He added that he was proud to see the diverse crowd that had gathered. “We are representative of men and women, the young and old, and South Africans of all colours, creed and backgrounds. This is the kind of solidarity movement that is growing in our country,” he said.
Organiser of the protest, Waaseel Bagus said, “We planned this demonstration to raise awareness for the plight of the Palestinian people. We would like to make people aware of what is happening in Palestine.”
Bagus added that even though the demonstration only attracted a few supporters, the spirit of those who attended made the day a success. “We have historically been outnumbered, but we will always come out victorious.”
Michael Freeman, deputy head of Mission at the Israeli Embassy made the following statement, “Yet again, a tiny number of haters and destructive voices are trying to capture South Africa’s interests. Trade between South Africa and Israel continues to climb and provides jobs and income to thousands of South Africans. Israel and South Africa have many joint interests and I am sure will continue to work together to provide opportunities for the citizens of both countries.”
