“We know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians” – Nelson Mandela
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union [NEHAWU] reiterates its unwavering solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine on the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with Palestine.
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed annually on the 29th November in line with the United Nations resolution 32/40B to provide Solidarity support with the People of Palestine.
Indeed, the struggle for the freedom of Palestinians is part our collective struggles as progressives across the world. It is 77 years since the Nakba Day, which saw a cleansing of Palestinians and the destruction of hundreds of homes, towns and villages to create the state of Israel. Since 1948, the world has witnessed the barbarity of the state of Israel with the atrocious killing of innocent Palestinian People by the Israeli military.
We observe this day against the background of continued violent attacks on Gaza by the Apartheid Israel military. The continued genocide, repression and killing of innocent Palestinians especially women, men and children must stop. The Israeli regime has continued with their killing and illegal blockade of humanitarian aid entering in Gaza and this has persisted even though a ceasefire agreement was signed on 10th of October 2025.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Amnesty International reports that at least 347 people, including 136 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire agreement. This complete disregard for human life and human rights by the Israeli government. Israel continues to violate all principles of international law by intentionally killing and injuring innocent civilians.
As NEHAWU, we remain steadfast and resolute in solidarity with the People of Palestine for an end of the illegal occupation, killings, and human rights violations. In this regard, we continue to call for:
• An Independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital
• Israel end the occupation and dismantle the apartheid wall, which contravenes international law
• A universal right of return for Palestinian refugees
• Full equality for Palestinians
• An end to the colonial settler expansionism of Israel
• Stop all forms of human rights violations
Lastly, we reiterate our unwavering Solidarity with the People of Palestine.
END
Issued by NEHAWU Secretariat.
Zola Saphetha (General Secretary) at 082 558 5968; December Mavuso (Deputy General Secretary) at 082 558 5969; Lwazi Nkolonzi (NEHAWU National Spokesperson) at 081 558 2335 or email: lwazin@nehawu.org.za