Here's a press release from the SA Zionist Fed. I draw attention to it to highlight the praise for South African president Thabo Mbeki.
| The South African Zionist Federation extends its sincere thanks to the President of South Africa, the honourable Mr Thabo Mbeki, for the very meaningful letter sent by him to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon during this most difficult time in Israel's history. In his letter the President acknowledges the pain suffered by those families for whom Gaza was their home, and recognizes that the Israeli government and people will do everything possible to minimize the trauma of their resettlement. He reiterates the importance of the pullout from Gaza in the interests of peace and stability in the Middle East, and as the first step towards the implementation of the Road Map to peace. In conclusion he assures Prime Minister Sharon of the South African government's support in dismantling the settlements. |
| The South African Zionist Federation pays tribute to the members of the Israeli Defence Force who have had to carry out the near-impossible task of removing people from their homes of 38 years, and to the patience, great sensitivity and deep concern with which they have acted. Tribute is also due to the settlers, most of whom have accepted with deep sorrow and resignation, as well as with dignity, the inevitability of the move. The SAZF hopes that this traumatic uprooting of more than 8 000 people from their homes and their lives will be the forerunner of a new chapter bringing peace in the Middle East; and that the aspirations and dreams of the people of Israel to live free from terror and death will become a reality. |
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