South Africa Engages Israel For Release Of Citizens Detained On Gaza Flotilla

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that negotiations are in progress to secure the release of South African citizens detained by Israeli authorities after participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla.

This follows reports from the Israeli foreign ministry that 137 activists from 14 countries have already been deported after joining the 42-boat flotilla. Notably, South Africa was not among the countries whose nationals have been repatriated.

Hundreds Detained After Israeli Military Intercepts Flotilla

The Israeli military intercepted the final vessel of the flotilla on Friday, detaining about 450 activists. Among those arrested were Swedish environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg and four South Africans, including Mandla Mandela, grandson of former President Nelson Mandela.

The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, sought to draw attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The interception and arrests have drawn international attention, with several countries working to facilitate the release of their detained citizens.

DIRCO Assures Detainees’ Safety Amid Ongoing Deportations

DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that the detained South Africans are currently in custody but in good condition.

“They are currently held in custody. We do know that they are safe, and we still reiterate our call that they must not be harmed, and that no impediments should be put in place for their release.

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“We do have a specialised team that is able to engage with them, but we do understand that processes for their deportation are underway. We can’t provide a timeframe as yet, but some detainees have been released, and I think that’s a sign that indeed, there’s room to make progress,” said Phiri.

DIRCO continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the swift and safe return of all South Africans detained in Israel.

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