BETHLEHEM, Friday, January 12, 2024 (WAFA) – The flag of South Africa was raised today in front of the Bethlehem Municipality in the occupied West Bank in appreciation for the African nation's unwavering support for Palestine, including filing a lawsuit charging Israel with genocide in the International Court of Justice.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from various entities, institutions, and security services in Bethlehem, along with community leaders.

Carmen Ghattas, the Director of Public Relations at the municipality, conveyed gratitude on behalf of the city's residents, municipal council, and organizations. She emphasized the depth of thanks and appreciation to the Republic of South Africa for its supportive stance for the Palestinian cause.

Ghattas commended South Africa's efforts to hold Israel accountable for its genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza before the International Court of Justice.

"We stand here today to express our profound gratitude and appreciation to the Republic of South Africa for its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and the vigorous efforts it exerts to hold the Israeli occupation accountable before the International Court of Justice," stated Ghattas.

Anton Salman, the Mayor of Bethlehem Municipality, extended his thanks and praise to South Africa and its people for their humanitarian stance in supporting the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

He expressed gratitude for South Africa's initiative to approach the United Nations and the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Salman also highlighted the ongoing plight of the Palestinian people facing an Israeli war of genocide in Gaza, the West Bank, and various other locations.

M.N