Former British politician George Galloway delivered a fiery address at Palestine House in Durban, condemning Israel's war in Gaza and the displacement of Palestinians from their land. He claimed that the message "love thy neighbour" had been misinterpreted as "steal thy neighbour's property". Galloway has a deep connection with South Africa, having worked closely with the African National Congress (ANC) in the 1980s.
Galloway's speech was part of his Power Tour, which he undertook with world-renowned journalist Yvonne Ridley. During the public meeting, Galloway spoke about the impact of the war on Palestine and historical world events of land invasion and forced settler occupation. He witnessed first-hand the displacement of people from their land since his first visit to Palestine and Gaza in the 1980s.
Yvonne Ridley, who is best known for crossing into Afghanistan disguised in a burqa and being captured by the Taliban, also spoke at the event. She led the Viva Palestine convoy to Gaza and continues to expose the injustices of foreign policy. Ridley stated that the media in the USA was starting to rebel against the country's war with Iran and backing of Israel in the destruction of Palestine.
Shabnam Palesa Mohamed, an activist, journalist, lawyer, and event host, also addressed the gathering. She stated that Galloway stood with South Africa during apartheid and now stands with Palestine. Mohamed mentioned that Durban declared Zionism a form of racism in 2001, and that the same force seeking to silence voices for Palestine was using corporate power to cut off their access to life.
Mohamed further emphasized the importance of unity in the face of division. She stated that the politics of division works because it makes people believe they are so different from each other that they cannot act together. Mohamed also highlighted that the real opponent is the one who profits from war and uses racism as a tool of rule.
Rabbi Dovid Feldman, the leader of Neturei Karta, sent a recorded video message in support of the guest speakers. He stated that the war in Palestine was televised and recorded on mobile-phone videos, making it impossible to manipulate people's minds about the war crimes taking place. Feldman expressed his support for the event and the speakers.
Galloway's Durban schedule included a talk at the Westville Soofie Musjid and a fundraising dinner at the Natal Memon Jamaat in Morningside on Saturday, which included an art exhibition and auction. On Monday, a media masterclass is expected to take place at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Howard College. The events aim to raise awareness about the situation in Palestine and promote solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Key points
- Galloway criticizes Israel's war in Gaza and displacement of Palestinians.
- Durban declared Zionism a form of racism in 2001.
- The event aimed to promote solidarity with the Palestinian cause and raise awareness about the situation in Palestine.
