COSATU condemns the unjustified wars of aggression against the people of the Middle East, Iran in this case. 

These wars led by the twin axis of occupation, aggression and genocide, being Israel and the US. From Gaza to Venezuela, Iran to the DRC and Sudan, these are the forces involved in wars of conquest, dispossession and looting of nations’ natural resources and territories. 

COSATU has been consistently opposed to war and imperialism. The Federation has stood firmly on the side of justice, peace and an end to occupation and imperialism. This includes in Palestine, Latin America and on our own continent, Africa. 

COSATU calls on the UN to hold Israel and the US responsible for the escalation of violence in the region and beyond. International law should be placed above narrow, self-interests of an empire with an appetite for more wars. The amassing of vast power capabilities in the form of the world’s two biggest aircraft carriers to the waters of the Middle East, signals the expressed intentions of imperialism on its war crusade.

This happened at a point when the world was hoping negotiations would be given a chance, moreover Iran was at the negotiating table; the vicious attack has plunged the entire region in total chaos with the real danger of this conflict engulfing multiple nations and causing the loss of life of many civilians.

COSATU supports the progressive global trade union movements calls for global marches for peace and justice against imperialism and wars of occupation and plunder.  The single biggest threat to lasting peace in the world is Zionism and imperialism.

COSATU reaffirms the fundamental perspectives expressed by our 8th Central Committee to mobilise and act in defence of our democratic sovereignty and that of other Global South countries. It’s a matter of life and death for humanity. 

COSATU offers unwavering solidarity to the peace-loving people of the Middle East during these trying times in their quest to end occupation and wars.  The Federation adds its voice to calls for an immediate cessation to all acts of war and aggression.  Ultimately the Middle East will only know true and lasting peace when the people of Palestine too are allowed to live in peace and an independent, sovereign state.

Issued by the COSATU General Secretary, Solly Phetoe.

For more information contact:

Zanele Sabela (COSATU Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639

Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za

Bongani Masuku (International Secretary)

Mobile: 079 499 6419

Email: bongani@cosatu.org.za