
Johannesburg – The South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) has acknowledged the “significant gravity and ethical complexities” surrounding the recently established ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
“Endorsed by Israel’s cabinet and security branches – including the IDF, Mossad, and Shabak – this agreement underscores Israel’s extraordinary commitment to returning its citizens,” stated Rolene Marks, spokesperson for the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF).
“However, it remains an arduous compromise that reflects both Israel’s resilience and its profound moral integrity in the face of unimaginable evil.
“Israel’s steadfast dedication to securing the release of 33 hostages during the initial phase of this arrangement – encompassing children, women, elderly men over 50, female soldiers, and the sick and wounded (with over 20 believed to be alive) exemplifies the Jewish principle that life is the utmost value.”
Nonetheless, Marks pointed out that the predicament of the 65 hostages still held captive – victims of Hamas’s brutal assaults and ongoing inhumanity – casts a pall over this moment of optimism.
“Their ongoing suffering at the hands of terrorists, who displayed no humanity during their violent attacks on October 7th, is an unbearable moral burden that Israel cannot and will not accept,” Marks remarked.
“This agreement symbolizes one of the most heart-wrenching decisions Israel has had to confront in recent memory.
“Yet, it showcases the strength of Israeli society – united in its resolve to bring our people home, no matter the cost.”
“While the return of our loved ones brings significant relief, the awareness that so many remain in the grips of these murderous terrorists weighs heavily on every Israeli spirit. Israel stands unified in declaring: it will not rest until every last captive is safely returned.”
Marks emphasized that, guided by the highest principle in Jewish tradition – the sanctity of human life – this decision resonates with the ancient saying: “Whoever saves a life, saves an entire world” (Sanhedrin 37a).
Ironically, more than 45,000 Palestinians – primarily women and children – have lost their lives in retaliatory actions executed by the Israeli Defence Force, with twice that number injured amidst the relentless bombardments.
South Africa has accused Israel of genocide in ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice.
Following 15 months of destruction, Israel’s campaign against Gaza is reportedly set to conclude on Sunday, (19 January 2025).
The ceasefire will unfold in three stages.
Phase 1 will last six weeks: Israeli bombardments will cease, and Israeli occupation forces will withdraw from the main towns and urban areas.
Thirty Israeli hostages will be freed, and 93 Palestinian prisoners/hostages will be released back home.
The following two phases will extend the ceasefire and ensure the complete withdrawal of all Israeli occupation forces from Gaza – initiating the area’s reconstruction.
Just hours after Hamas and Israel announced having reached a ceasefire agreement, Aljazeera reported that Israeli forces killed at least 82 individuals in Gaza.
The death toll – beginning at dawn on Wednesday, (15 January 2025) – is expected to rise as displaced Palestinians return to their temporary shelters after a brief period of celebrating the ceasefire announcement.
Nevertheless, a SAZF statement released on Friday, (17 January 2025), maintained that there can be no moral equivalence between innocent hostages and terrorists.
“The release of Palestinian terrorists, who have been convicted of heinous acts against innocent Israeli civilians, is a difficult concession to accept,” Marks stated.
“There is no moral equivalence between innocent hostages – abducted from their homes, schools, and streets simply for being Jewish – and terrorists who intentionally targeted men, women, and children with malicious intent.
“Israel’s willingness to make such painful compromises reflects not weakness, but the profound strength of a society united in protecting its own.
“However, let there be no misunderstanding – this is a temporary measure. The horrific actions of Hamas on October 7th and their ongoing retention of innocent hostages reveal their true nature as a terrorist organization devoid of compassion.
“Israel will continue to defend its citizens with unwavering determination.”