MEDIA STATEMENT
For Immediate Release — 29 Ramadan 1447 AH / 19 March 2026
“They have locked the gates of heaven’s doorstep. This is not politics. This is an attack on faith itself.”
SOUTH AFRICA — As millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the gates of Masjid Al-Aqsa remain locked by Israeli occupation forces. Worshippers have been barred from Islam’s third holiest site for three weeks—through the final days of Ramadan, the Night of Power, and now Eid.
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The Siege of the Sanctuary: Why Defending Al-Aqsa is Defending Islam Itself
“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Qur’an, 17:1)
In this sacred month of Ramadan, as Muslims around the world turn their faces in prayer towards the Qibla, their hearts remain fixed on a different sanctuary—Masjid Al-Aqsa, the first Qibla of Islam, the destination of the Prophet’s night journey, and the third holiest site in our faith. Yet today, that sanctuary is under siege.
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Hassen Lorgat – Published 9 March 2026
As South Africa’s public broadcaster faces scrutiny, a recent BCCSA ruling opens the door for transformative change, prompting a vital discussion among human rights groups.
On Monday, March 9, 2026, a coalition of human rights solidarity groups will meet with the SABC to discuss the implications of the recent BCCSA ruling involving the public broadcaster.
(more…)PSA was honoured to host the launch of “Free Palestine”, a new anthem by legendary SA artist William Mthethwa, on 14 February 2026. This song is dedicated to the Children of Palestine, born from the horror of the Genocide in Gaza. Through this song we acknowledge that music can carry pain, hope, resistance, and love all at once. Together we can make this song go viral.
View the event livestream
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 30 January 2026
South African Civil Society Applauds Expulsion of Israeli Diplomat, Calls for Further Action
As a coalition of South African civil society organisations, we unequivocally welcome the Government’s principled and long overdue decision to declare Israeli Deputy Ambassador and Chargé d’Affaires, Mr Ariel Seidman, persona non grata and to require his departure from South Africa within 72 hours.
(more…)What is the root of our conscience? What drives us to stand against injustice? We’ve discussed academic and political questions. Now, we ask something more foundational: What compels us to act with conscience, compassion, and moral courage against profound injustice?
For some, it’s faith. For others, ethics, solidarity, or truth. Our sources differ, but the refusal to be indifferent is a common responsibility. We are joined by Fr David Neuhaus, who brings a remarkable perspective from the West Bank of occupied Palestine. A Jew, a Christian, an Anti-Zionist, and a priest, listen to his unique experience and work.
Sowetan, January 20, 2026
Solidarity through music — that is the spirit of Free Palestine, a new song that legendary musician William Mthethwa has been working on.
Mthethwa, who achieved fame in the 70s and 80s with his band, the Young Five, has also earmarked June 16 for a Free Palestine concert, tapping into SA’s history of resistance to amplify the call for solidarity with the besieged Palestinians. Mthethwa explains to Sowetan why he is raising his voice on the issue.
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