By Edward Makuzva
The Palestinian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dr. Tamer Almassri, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Zimbabwean government for its unwavering support regarding the ceasefire.
This gesture of solidarity is particularly significant, given Zimbabwe’s historical stance on Palestinian issues.
In fact, Zimbabwe was the first African country to recognize Palestine back in 1988. Since then, the two nations have maintained strong ties, with Zimbabwe consistently advocating for Palestinian rights.
Ambassador Almassri’s appreciation comes after Zimbabwe voted in favor of the United Nations General Assembly draft resolution on September 18, 2024. This move demonstrates Zimbabwe’s continued commitment to supporting Palestine’s quest for peace and justice .
Speaking at a press conference in the capital, Thursday, Ambassador Almassri added that the Zimbabwean government has consistently shown solidarity with the Palestinian people, with the current government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been particularly vocal in its support during the Israeli genocide in Gaza Strip.
“Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its strong support for Palestine by voting in favor of UN resolutions that advocate for Palestine’s rights and freedoms. This commitment extends beyond voting, as Zimbabwe has also demonstrated solidarity with the Palestinian people on various international platforms, including the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“This historical solidarity has been reinforced by recent actions, such as President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s meeting with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh in February 2023. Zimbabwe’s stance on Palestine has been consistent, calling for an end to Israel’s occupation and advocating for Palestinian statehood”, Ambassador Almassri explained.
He added that the genocide is far from over, and although a ceasefire is in place, it’s extremely fragile. The Israeli leadership has made it clear that they plan to resume their aggression in just a few weeks, rendering the current ceasefire ineffective after the first stage of the ceasefire.
Ambassador Almassri praises the US government, under the leadership of President Joe Biden for its efforts to broker a ceasefire.
The Gaza Strip has been devastated by the ongoing genocide, with staggering statistics revealing the extent of the humanitarian crisis.
Statistics from the War.
Human Toll
Palestinian Fatalities: Over 41,870 Palestinians have been killed by the Israeli military, with more than 10,000 others reported missing and presumed dead.
Children Killed: At least 16,750 Palestinian children have been killed, including approximately 1,300 infants and toddlers under the age of two.
Women Killed: At least 6,297 Palestinian women have been killed.
Elderly Killed: At least 2,955 elderly Palestinians have been killed.
Displacement and Infrastructure Damage
Forced Displacement: Nearly 2 million Palestinians have been driven from their homes, accounting for about 90% of the population .
Home Destruction : More than 79,000 Palestinian homes have been completely destroyed, with at least 370,000 damaged.
Hospital Destruction: All 36 hospitals in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, with 19 completely knocked out of service ¹.
Humanitarian Crisis
Water Crisis: Gaza’s sewage pumps have been 70% destroyed, and all five wastewater treatment plants have been damaged.
Food Crisis: Approximately 500,000 Palestinians are suffering from extreme hunger.
Health Crisis: More than 97,000 Palestinians have been wounded, with over 22,500 suffering from life-changing injuries.
Meanwhile , Dr Almassri reaveled that the State of Palestine reaffirms its unwavering dedication to upholding the inherent rights of the Palestinian people, encompassing their right to self-governance and the right to return to their ancestral homes. It is imperative that Israel is held accountable for its transgressions and compelled to terminate its unlawful occupation, thereby paving the way for a just and lasting peace.