We have received the tragic news of the massive fire that tore through a building in central Johannesburg in South Africa, killing at least 73 people and injuring more than 50 others. 

As we offer our sincere condolences to South Africa's government and people, in general, and to the victims' families, in particular, we highlight the humanitarian bonds and supreme values that our Palestinian people share with their South African counterparts. 

The great people of South Africa will overcome such tragedy as they have done numerous times before, given their high morals and previous experiences. 

Basem Naim
Head of Hamas' Political and Foreign Relations Department 
Friday, 1 September 2023