Economic Freedom Fighters Rally in Protest Against Israeli Embassy in South Africa

On Monday, Oct. 23, in the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict marking its 17th day, South African opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) held a significant demonstration in front of the Israeli embassy located in Pretoria. The party leader, Julius Malema, spearheaded the protest, reiterating calls for a comprehensive closure of the Embassy and appealed to local retailers to cease selling Israeli commodities.

Malema drew analogies between the struggle of Palestinians and the fight led by Nelson Mandela for South African independence. He said, "When you are oppressed, the only option you have is to fight," illustrating his support for Hamas, an organization founded in 1987 during the first Palestinian Intifada.

Hamas, initially rooted in the Muslim Brotherhood, has faced criticism for resorting to violence in its quest to liberate the occupied Palestinian territories. They scored a victory in 2006 parliamentary elections and took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, which led to an Israeli blockade creating a severe impact on Gaza's economy.

Israel has justified this blockade as a security measure against Hamas's weapon development attempts. However, the recent incursion by Hamas on October 7 led to significant Israeli retaliation, manifesting in airstrikes that have resulted in thousands of civilian casualties in Gaza.

Malema highlighted the need for a two-state solution, with Israel ceasing its expansion into Palestinian territories. The protest by EFF follows a similar demonstration by the ruling African National Congress (ANC) on Oct. 20.

President Cyril Ramaphosa sought United Nations-led negotiation process for the resolution of the Israel-Palestinian conflict during his speech at the Gaza peace summit in Egypt. He appealed for an immediate end to hostilities, provision of humanitarian aid, and opening of humanitarian corridors.

The recent wave of pro-Palestinian demonstrations isn't confined to South Africa, with numerous cities across North Africa and around the globe echoing similar sentiments.