Pretoria – The South African government has extended condolences following the passing of veteran Palestinian diplomat Leila Shahid at 76 in France, recognising her longstanding role in international diplomacy.
In an official message, authorities acknowledged Shahid’s advocacy for Palestinian representation on the global stage and her contribution to multilateral dialogue across Europe and international institutions.
The President described Shahid’s passing as a “moment of sadness that ripples from the ruins of a brutalised Palestine to places all over the world where we remain resolute in our solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle for freedom”.
“Leila Shahid leaves us while the State of Israel perpetuates the excessive violence and disregard of international law that Leila witnessed, fought against and brought to the attention of the international community during her decades of activism.
Shahid was widely known for her articulate engagement in diplomatic forums, where she championed dialogue and political resolution in one of the world’s most enduring geopolitical conflicts.
South Africa reaffirmed its solidarity with the Palestinian people, extending sympathy to Shahid’s family and colleagues during what officials described as a significant loss to diplomatic circles.
International leaders and organisations have also issued statements honouring her decades of service and influence in shaping global discourse on the Palestinian question.
Her passing marks the end of a prominent diplomatic career that spanned critical chapters in Middle Eastern and international relations.
Anyone with additional information relating to this story can contact us through email press@townpress.co.za.
Facebook Comments