On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, South Africa’s Ambassador to Palestine, Shaun Benfeldt, visited the Yasser Arafat Museum, where he was received by Dr. Ahmad Soboh, Chair of the Yasser Arafat Foundation, and Mohammad Halayqa, Director of the Museum.

Dr. Soboh briefed the ambassador on the museum’s exhibition, which chronicles the key milestones in the history of the Palestinian cause since the beginning of the conflict with Israeli occupation. He also expressed appreciation for South Africa’s consistent support for Palestine across all international platforms.

Ambassador Benfeldt later met with representatives of the Fatah Youth Movement, led by Seif Aql, Vice President of the International Union of Socialist Youth, in the museum’s Al-Muntada Hall.

The ambassador spoke about South Africa's youth experience in resisting colonialism and apartheid, highlighting political activism, peaceful protests, alliances, and the country’s difficult path to liberation.

The meeting also explored ways to strengthen ties between the two youth organizations in support of the shared struggle of both peoples.

Ambassador Benfeldt reaffirmed his country’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their just cause.

Seif Aql emphasized the historic relationship between Palestine and South Africa, rooted in the strong bond between Yasser Arafat and Nelson Mandela. He also thanked South Africa—both its government and people—for its steadfast advocacy for Palestine in international forums.