Summary
The City of Johannesburg, South Africa, is considering renaming Sandton Drive, where the U.S. consulate is located, after Leila Khaled, a Palestinian militant known for her involvement in two hijacking attempts in the late 1960s. This proposal has sparked significant debate and criticism from various political parties and the local Jewish community, reflecting deep divisions over the recognition of historical figures associated with controversial actions.
Leila Khaled, a member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), gained notoriety for her role in hijacking a Trans World Airlines flight in 1969 and attempting to hijack an Israeli Airlines flight in 1970. While she is viewed as a hero by some in the pro-Palestinian movement, including factions within South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC), others see her as a terrorist. The proposal to rename the street has been met with opposition from groups such as the South African Zionist Federation, which argues that honoring Khaled would be divisive and provocative, particularly given the historical context of her actions and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Public objections to the renaming can be submitted until mid-October, as the city council weighs the proposal’s implications for community relations and historical recognition.
Historical Context
The street renaming proposal dates back to 2018, initially suggested by the pro-Palestinian party Al Jama-ah and supported by the ANC. This renewed consideration comes amid heightened tensions following recent events in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including a significant Hamas attack on Israel that resulted in numerous civilian casualties. The ANC’s support for the renaming is indicative of its broader alignment with Palestinian causes, which has been a longstanding aspect of South African foreign policy.
Community Reactions
The proposal has polarized opinions, with some viewing Khaled as a symbol of resistance against oppression, while others argue that her actions do not align with South Africa’s values of tolerance and reconciliation. Critics, including members of the African Christian Democratic Party, assert that Khaled’s legacy does not contribute positively to Johannesburg’s identity or its historical narrative, which has focused on anti-colonial and anti-apartheid figures. The ongoing public discourse reflects the complexities of how historical figures are honored and the implications of such decisions in a diverse society.
Johannesburg considers naming a street after a Palestinian woman who hijacked a plane
Oct. 1 / Newsday / Highlights the deep divisions within South Africa regarding the renaming proposal, providing historical context and showcasing the perspectives of both supporters and critics, enriching the debate. “ JOHANNESBURG — Officials in South Africa's biggest city of Johannesburg have proposed renaming a major street after a Palestinian woman who was involved in a...
Johannesburg, South Africa, to Rename U.S. Consulate Street After Palestinian Hijacker
Sep. 25 / Brietbart / Presents a starkly critical view of the renaming proposal, emphasizing its implications for the U.S. consulate and framing Khaled as a terrorist, which may resonate with readers seeking a more polarized perspective. “ The City of Johannesburg, South Africa, has decided to rename the street on which the U.S. consulate is situated after a notorious Palestinian terrorist who...