Bombings in Israel and Palestine which have left 24 people dead, including a baby and children, were counterproductive to peace, South Africa's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

"The South African Government condemns in the strongest possible terms the suicide bombing at the Felafel Restaurant in Tel Aviv that has left nine people dead (on Monday)," said Ronnie Mamoepa, spokesman of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The suicide bombing followed a bombing in Gaza last week which caused the deaths of 15 Palestinians including a baby and children.

"The South African government has pointed out before the futility of these acts of violence as (they) inevitably lead to acts of retribution and retaliation, fueling the never-ending cycle of violence," said Mamoepa.

"We stand firm in our belief that no cause can justify the resort to terror against innocent civilians whether Palestinian or Israeli, as acts of terror cannot deliver the much cherished peace and security sought by Palestinians and Israelis alike," he said.

The only way to end violence was to end the occupation of Palestinian territories and for both sides to return to negotiations, he said.

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) party, whose ties with the Palestinians date back to decades in exile, has been a vocal supporter of their cause. The ANC has also been keen to share its experiences in averting conflict through dialogue on the continent and abroad.

After the Palestinian elections in January, South African President Thabo Mbeki made it clear that South Africa would continue to work with the Palestinian government and people to contribute to their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also said that South Africa can play a productive role in the Middle East peace process during his visit to South Africa early this month.

Source: Xinhua