Ramaphosa urges Israel to free detained South Africans
On Thu, Oct 5, 2023, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, addressed the issue of South African activists detained by Israeli armed forces. The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted by the Israeli navy while…
On Thu, Oct 5, 2023, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, addressed the issue of South African activists detained by Israeli armed forces. The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted by the Israeli navy while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of approximately 40 boats carrying international activists and aid, was stopped and directed to the port of Ashdod. The Israeli authorities reportedly conducted immigration proceedings without legal representation for the activists. The Adalah legal center, assisting the flotilla, eventually gained access to consult with the volunteers.
Among the detained individuals are three confirmed South African nationals, including Nkosi Zwelivelile "Mandla" Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela. The status of three additional South African citizens is under verification by the South African presidency.
On Thu, Oct 5, 2023, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, addressed the issue of South African activists detained by Israeli armed forces.
President Ramaphosa has called for the immediate release of the detained activists, condemning the interception as a serious violation of international solidarity efforts for Gaza.
One vessel from the flotilla, the Mikeno, reportedly evaded the blockade and entered Palestinian territorial waters. Current communication with the Mikeno is unavailable.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
