South African Catholic Archbishop horrified by Israeli Defence Force killings

Archbishop Stephen Brislin

Archbishop Stephen Brislin, Catholic Archbishop of Cape Town, issued the following statement yesterday:

We join with many around the world who were horrified at the killing of 18 Gazans near the militarized fence separating Gaza from Israel and the maiming and injuries of hundred of protesters by the Israeli Defence Force.

That this violence occurred on the holiest of days in both the Jewish and Christian faith communities calendar, adds to our outrage.

From news reports it seems clear that the Gazans were involved in a peaceful protest, the March of Return which was organized to coincide with the Land Day on 30th March.

Land dispossession remains a key issue in the struggle of the Palestinian people. The situation in the Gaza Strip remains desperate and is often referred to as the 'world's largest open air prison.' It comes as little surprise that the people of this strip of land continue to express their political frustrations by means of non-violent protest. We support the call of the United Nations for a Commission of Inquiry into what has been called, 'The Passover Massacre' by some.

Our solidarity and prayers are with those who work tirelessly for justice and peace in the Holy Land.

+ Stephen Brislin
Catholic Archbishop of Cape Town