Ramaphosa Demands Israel Free Mandla Mandela And South Africans Seized From Gaza Flotilla

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) by Israeli forces, calling it a “grave offence.”

The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, was seized in international waters, leading to the detention of several South Africans, including former MP Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.

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Ramaphosa stated that the interception violated international law and the sovereignty of the nations represented by the vessels’ flags.

He further highlighted that the operation disregarded the International Court of Justice injunction that requires unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

South Africans Among Those Detained

The South Africans reportedly abducted include Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, and Dr Fatima Hendricks, alongside Mandela. Before their detention, Mandela and Wanner had called on the South African government to demand their release should they be captured.

Ramaphosa said Israel must immediately allow the flotilla’s aid cargo to reach Palestinians, stressing that the mission represents solidarity with Gaza rather than hostility toward Israel.

Calls for Humanitarian Access to Gaza

Reaffirming South Africa’s stance, Ramaphosa expressed support for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights’ call for Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the flow of life-saving supplies.

“My thoughts are with all of the abductees and their families, and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists, as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East,” said Ramaphosa.

The Global Sumud Flotilla confirmed that Israeli naval forces intercepted and boarded the vessels in international waters, sparking international outcry.

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