South Africa recalls ambassador over Israeli raid of Gaza flotilla

Criticism from the United States, Israel's closest friend, has been muted so far, but condemnation has poured in from members of the United Nation's Security Council, the 27 nations of the European Union, and the UN itself. The UN Human Rights Council has called for an international investigation of the incident.

“I am shocked by reports of killing of people in boats carrying supply to Gaza,” Secretary General Ban said. “I heard the ships were in international waters. That is very bad.”

Given its long struggle against apartheid, the African National Congress (ANC) that now rules South Africa would appear a natural advocate for human rights and oppressed peoples. But political scientist Steven Friedman says the past 15 years of ANC government have favored pragmatism over idealism. South Africa’s strong support for the military junta in Burma (Myanmar) is emblematic of this general penchant for non-confrontation.

“You’d think that the parallels between the South African situation and the Palestinian situation would convince the South African government to take a strong stand on the issue, and it does go through the motions,” says Mr. Friedman, who is director of the Center for Democracy and Governance at the University of Johannesburg. Instead, he says, “there is a concerted effort to be on the side of everybody and hope that it benefits us as well.”

South African radio journalist Gadijah Davids was among the 682 protesters aboard the six ships of the flotilla, all of whom have since been deported.

IN PICTURES: The Gaza flotilla and the aftermath of the Israeli naval raid

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