“For us to be invisible in a massive human struggle where we know a huge murder is underway, I think that is unacceptable.” - Naledi Pandor Late last year, the South African government took the historic step of filing a case with the world’s highest court, accusing Israel of genocide. Less than a month later, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a momentous ruling, saying it was plausible the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza amounted to genocide.
When I was an activist for Palestinian freedom and rights, it was like banging my head against the wall because Israeli lies were unquestioned - the old one about "human shields," the deaths of international protesters and journalists at the hands of the IDF where the victims were to blame, and if you said a word, you were deemed "antisemitic."
So many Palestinians have been murdered, and their homes destroyed, yet the world still pretends these people deserve it. I'm afraid for them because this is a genocide. My heartfelt thanks to everyone sounding the alarm.
Great comments! I would like to say though, "yet the world pretends these people deserve it", is incorrect. This applie to the US and its allies (generally "White countries"), a minority. Fortunately this doesn't apply to most of the world, who sympathise with the Palestinians. This war is changing that perception, particularly among the younger demographic, in countries which have traditionally held that view. Promising!
True, but many countries stay silent because the US gives them financial aid which those countries depend on. Two of those countries are the Marshall Islands and American Samoa, who always vote however the US wants them to in the UN. Note that Joe Biden claims he's pressuring Netanyahu for a ceasefire, yet in the latest UN vote the US abstained. They also refuse to resume giving funds to UNRWA even though it's clear that Israel made false claims about the organization supporting Hamas.
Very True. It's criminal and clear for the world to see. They've lost any moral authority they may have had and will find it hard to lecture countries on any topic into the future. Enabling a genocide does come at a cost.
What we're seeing is a US president who publicly demands a ceasefire while "quietly" sending bomber jets and 2,000 pound bombs to Israel. He's fooling the Americans but not for much longer. Biden is a fool. He's supporting Israel's genocide against the Palestinians but it may cost him reelection. Maybe that's the way an 82 year old man gets out of running for another term.
The American presidency is a charade, regardless of who is in power. The administrations are generally made up of the same people, who do all the work and produce policy along with the same lobbying groups who influence them. The President is just a figurehead/mouthpiece who speaks to the public. The problems with American politics go far deeper than the president. With the current 2-party system filled with (and dominated by) like-minded people on both sides, vis-a-vis Israel, except nothing to change.
I am a white American grandmother. It hurts my heart to hear of the number of innocent Palestinian children killed in Gaza. Our nation should never be complicit in the killing of innocent civilians. Why are we helping to fund such activities?
We need more people like Foreign Minister Pandor to speak up against the deliberately defiant transgressors of humanity. Do people not believe in humanity anymore?!? We’ve watched genocide live on TV for months!
Mehdi - there have been land sales in Toronto, Ontario. They’re selling Palestinian occupied land here in my backyard. Can you shed some light on this story?
An important interview with an uplifting woman. It was also necessary to be evenhanded and confront her on some policy conflicts. Thank you Mehdi for being the pro that you are.
This was an incredible interview, and a wonderful showcase of what Zeteo can do for the journalism space. Mehdi not only asked about South Africa's involvement in the ICJ case, but questioned some of the contentious positions and actions South Africa has taken in recent years. THIS is what good, balanced journalism looks like, and I'm glad to be along for the ride
If there is one statement in the interview that moved me is when the Foreign Minister said "I wish I could stand in front of the Palestinian children and save them from being murdered". The whole world is watching and could do nothing in front of a tiny nation which is nothing without the support of the 5 allies mentioned.
Amazing interview. Truly an amazing intellect South Africa has there. We need more of persons like her in our world today. But, more so - we need to make sure their voices reach everyone. Thank you Zeteo!
If the USA can provide an iron dome for Israel, purely for defense. Can they not provide an iron dome for Palestine? Can they not provide one for Lebanon?
Thank you Mahdi. Could you question Arab state leaders (when will they show support for a Palestinian state to save the Palestinian lives and dignity please)
It has become increasingly clear that this administration has no international global high ground. To support the defense of Ukraine against Russian aggression and then support the Israeli aggression against Palestinians is a total and glaring disconnect. Do we as a country universally believe in justice and human rights or do we not? The answer to that question is obvious. I can see no indication that Biden will change course on this disastrous support for the genocide continuing before the eyes of the world. Naledi Pandor is an inspiring voice and I thank you Medhi for sharing and introducing that voice with me and hopefully many others.
When I was an activist for Palestinian freedom and rights, it was like banging my head against the wall because Israeli lies were unquestioned - the old one about "human shields," the deaths of international protesters and journalists at the hands of the IDF where the victims were to blame, and if you said a word, you were deemed "antisemitic."
So many Palestinians have been murdered, and their homes destroyed, yet the world still pretends these people deserve it. I'm afraid for them because this is a genocide. My heartfelt thanks to everyone sounding the alarm.
Thank you for your support
A mere 15 years ago I would have been banned for making a comment like this one. Americans are finally becoming aware of the truth.
Great comments! I would like to say though, "yet the world pretends these people deserve it", is incorrect. This applie to the US and its allies (generally "White countries"), a minority. Fortunately this doesn't apply to most of the world, who sympathise with the Palestinians. This war is changing that perception, particularly among the younger demographic, in countries which have traditionally held that view. Promising!
True, but many countries stay silent because the US gives them financial aid which those countries depend on. Two of those countries are the Marshall Islands and American Samoa, who always vote however the US wants them to in the UN. Note that Joe Biden claims he's pressuring Netanyahu for a ceasefire, yet in the latest UN vote the US abstained. They also refuse to resume giving funds to UNRWA even though it's clear that Israel made false claims about the organization supporting Hamas.
Very True. It's criminal and clear for the world to see. They've lost any moral authority they may have had and will find it hard to lecture countries on any topic into the future. Enabling a genocide does come at a cost.
What we're seeing is a US president who publicly demands a ceasefire while "quietly" sending bomber jets and 2,000 pound bombs to Israel. He's fooling the Americans but not for much longer. Biden is a fool. He's supporting Israel's genocide against the Palestinians but it may cost him reelection. Maybe that's the way an 82 year old man gets out of running for another term.
The American presidency is a charade, regardless of who is in power. The administrations are generally made up of the same people, who do all the work and produce policy along with the same lobbying groups who influence them. The President is just a figurehead/mouthpiece who speaks to the public. The problems with American politics go far deeper than the president. With the current 2-party system filled with (and dominated by) like-minded people on both sides, vis-a-vis Israel, except nothing to change.
I am a white American grandmother. It hurts my heart to hear of the number of innocent Palestinian children killed in Gaza. Our nation should never be complicit in the killing of innocent civilians. Why are we helping to fund such activities?
Great question.
Thanks for having her as a guest.
She is a true hero!
Thanks for watching
We need more people like Foreign Minister Pandor to speak up against the deliberately defiant transgressors of humanity. Do people not believe in humanity anymore?!? We’ve watched genocide live on TV for months!
Thank you Mehdi! I’m an advocate for Zeteo.
Appreciate it.
Mehdi - there have been land sales in Toronto, Ontario. They’re selling Palestinian occupied land here in my backyard. Can you shed some light on this story?
An important interview with an uplifting woman. It was also necessary to be evenhanded and confront her on some policy conflicts. Thank you Mehdi for being the pro that you are.
Thanks!
Great first interview. I'm so glad I subscribed.
Thanks, we're glad you subscribed too.
This was an incredible interview, and a wonderful showcase of what Zeteo can do for the journalism space. Mehdi not only asked about South Africa's involvement in the ICJ case, but questioned some of the contentious positions and actions South Africa has taken in recent years. THIS is what good, balanced journalism looks like, and I'm glad to be along for the ride
Thanks for watching and for the feedback.
If there is one statement in the interview that moved me is when the Foreign Minister said "I wish I could stand in front of the Palestinian children and save them from being murdered". The whole world is watching and could do nothing in front of a tiny nation which is nothing without the support of the 5 allies mentioned.
It was so refreshing to hear her speak. Thank you for having this interview.
Thank you for watching.
Amazing interview. Truly an amazing intellect South Africa has there. We need more of persons like her in our world today. But, more so - we need to make sure their voices reach everyone. Thank you Zeteo!
Thank you.
If the USA can provide an iron dome for Israel, purely for defense. Can they not provide an iron dome for Palestine? Can they not provide one for Lebanon?
This woman is such a beautiful soul. And you are a great journalist Mehdi.
Well done you!
Thank you Mahdi. Could you question Arab state leaders (when will they show support for a Palestinian state to save the Palestinian lives and dignity please)
Brilliant first interview. Thank you Madam and thank you South Africa.
Tks!
It has become increasingly clear that this administration has no international global high ground. To support the defense of Ukraine against Russian aggression and then support the Israeli aggression against Palestinians is a total and glaring disconnect. Do we as a country universally believe in justice and human rights or do we not? The answer to that question is obvious. I can see no indication that Biden will change course on this disastrous support for the genocide continuing before the eyes of the world. Naledi Pandor is an inspiring voice and I thank you Medhi for sharing and introducing that voice with me and hopefully many others.
Thank you, great interview and great pick for interviewee!
Ok now I know zeteo will be the greatest platform and I am so happy I have subscribed. Great interview 👏