Israel and Hamas have been at war since the Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, with hundreds of gunmen infiltrating communities near the Gaza Strip.

Earlier this year, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take all measures to prevent genocide against the people of Gaza in a case brought by South Africa.

On Wednesday, Ramaphosa told more than 30 world leaders that South Africa was concerned about the escalating conflict.

The BRICS bloc of countries includes Brazil, Russia, China, India and South Africa, as well as new member states Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates ( WATER).

Ramaphosa delivered the speech during a plenary session in Kazan.

“As the world bears witness to the continuing plight of the Palestinian people, South Africa is obliged to emulate this spirit of solidarity. As a country, we understand the value of global support for a people’s right to self-determination and the creation of a state.

“We are gravely concerned by the further escalation of a conflict that has already caused so much death and destruction,” Ramaphosa said.

He called on the influential bloc to use its voice to advance global change – particularly on resolving international conflicts that require “a representative and inclusive UN Security Council”.

“We see, through numerous conflicts raging across the world, that the UN Security Council has failed to fulfill its mandate to maintain international peace and security. It does not represent the interests of the global community and therefore does not have the means to give effect to the global desire for peace,” the president said at the summit.

“Just as BRICS plays a vital role in shaping a new multipolar world order, they must also raise their voices to advance change.

“We reached consensus on UN Security Council reform during our meeting in Johannesburg last year. Let us build on this foundation to develop an improved consensus that addresses the concerns and aspirations of all BRICS members,” Ramaphosa said.

He stressed that the International Court of Justice had made it clear that the international community had a duty to prevent genocide committed by Israel.

“Countries around the world have a responsibility not to finance or facilitate Israel’s genocidal actions.

“As decided by the United Nations General Assembly, countries around the world have a responsibility to promote the realization of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.

“Last peace and security will not be achieved until Palestinians realize their aspirations for statehood, justice and freedom. Peace and security in the world require the collective will of the community of nations.

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