Nineteen South Africans who had been stuck in war-hit Gaza have safely been evacuated to South Africa.

This as hostilities continue between Israel and Palestine.

The six males and 13 females, who were in Gaza since October 7 arrived safely in Cairo and were en route to South Africa, the Department of International Relations and Co-operation said yesterday.

It was later confirmed that the group will arrive at the OR Tambo International Airport at 13:05.

Update: The SA🇿🇦 evacuees from #Gaza will arrive @ortambo_int today (Tuesday, 05 December 2023) at 13h05. Contact @NelsonKgwete for more details & interviews. https://t.co/yGyrbkVEam

— Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) December 5, 2023

The South Africans were approved for evacuation into Egypt by the Israeli authorities.

“South Africa extends its gratitude to the government of Egypt for granting the evacuated foreign nationals safe passage through the Rafah Crossing into its country.”

Meanwhile, the department said the Israeli government has indicated that it intends to extend its attack on the people of Gaza.

“The statements from Israeli leaders appear impervious to the global calls for an immediate end to the killing of Palestinian civilians.

“South Africa calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the resumption of talks that will end the violence arising from the continued belligerent occupation and lays the basis for a just and lasting solution,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za

Pro-Palestine march

Meanwhile, Pretoria Rekord reported that thousands of pro-Palestine protesters were expected to picket in the streets of the Pretoria CBD today.

“The purpose of the picket is to pledge solidarity with the people of Palestine in South Africa. They are expected to picket at the Union Buildings from 09:00 and will disperse at 14:00,” said TMPD spokesperson senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba.