Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
17 October 2023 | 12:57 CAT
1-min read

Picture: Radio Islam International

In the Africa Report on Radio Islam International, Dr Emmanuel Matambo discussed the war in Palestine, the different responses from leaders on the African continent, as well as Africa’s media coverage of the war.

Dr Matambo emphasised the significance of historical context in understanding the current crisis, highlighting the impact of Israel’s heavy-handed approach. He also addressed the varying stances taken by African nations, pointing out the African National Congress’s (ANC) long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and some other African political parties have shown support for Israel, albeit from a one-sided perspective.

The implications of Western support for Israel and the moral responsibilities associated with it were also discussed. Dr Matambo strongly condemned the indiscriminate attacks on innocent lives in Gaza, stressing the need for a more measured approach in media coverage to condemn violence on both sides.

Regarding the position taken by the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, Dr Matambo expressed concerns about some African countries aligning themselves with these global powers. He emphasised the importance of the ethical implications of supporting Israel despite the ongoing assaults in the Gaza Strip.

The interview shed light on the dichotomised nature of media coverage.

“Even in international media, if you look at CNN and at Al Jazeera, it appears that they are analysing different wars,” Dr Matambo observed.

Dr Matambo noted the lack of a “well-measured line” in the media. Dr Mutambo also highlighted the African National Congress’s recent public display of solidarity with the Palestinian cause, which he attributed to the organisation’s historical anti-colonial stance and its current efforts to maintain its position in South African politics.

Listen to the Africa Report on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.