The Congress of South African Trade Unions in the province of KwaZulu Natal (COSATU KZN) stands in full and unwavering solidarity with the United for Palestine in its call for the Comrades Marathon to exclude participants from Israel. This principled call is part of a broader international campaign to isolate the Israeli apartheid regime for its ongoing war crimes and genocidal acts against the Palestinian people.

South Africa, as a country and through its government, has taken a clear and firm stance against the atrocities committed by Israel. The historic case brought by South Africa before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel for acts of genocide reflects our country’s long-standing commitment to international justice and human rights. The ICJ has taken this matter seriously, and the evidence presented underscores the urgency of global action.

As COSATU, we have consistently supported the Palestinian struggle and championed campaigns calling for the boycott, divestment, and sanctions against the Israeli regime. Our call to boycott Israeli goods is rooted in our broader commitment to international solidarity, justice, and the fight against all forms of oppression.

Sport is not above politics, especially when used to sanitise or normalise oppression. Just as the international community boycotted apartheid South Africa to pressure an end to racial injustice, so too must Israel face the same global isolation for its crimes against humanity. Allowing representatives of the Israeli state to participate in a globally celebrated event like the Comrades Marathon undermines South Africa’s moral leadership and the sacrifices made by those who fought against apartheid.

We therefore urge the organisers of the Comrades Marathon to act with integrity and courage by respecting this call. We call on the organisers to respond to a call for “People United for Palestine” and create a platform for engagement on this matter.

Excluding Israeli participants is not an act of discrimination, it is an act of conscience. It is a stand against genocide, apartheid, and the continued suffering of the Palestinian people.

COSATU remains committed to the fight for a free Palestine and will continue to support efforts that hold the Israeli state accountable for its actions.

Issued by COSATU KZN

Provincial Secretary

Edwin Mkhize

082 399 7756 / 076 522 8839