In a powerful statement on Thursday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged Israel to immediately release South African nationals and other activists detained after the interception of humanitarian aid vessels bound for the Gaza Strip.
"The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offense by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region," Ramaphosa said.
The flotilla of around 50 vessels, crewed by more than 500 volunteers from over 40 countries, set sail in August to challenge the naval blockade imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip and deliver food and medical supplies amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
On Wednesday night, Israeli naval forces intercepted about 40 boatsroughly 80% of the fleetand diverted them to Ashdod. Reports suggest Israel plans to expel the activists, including at least six South Africans, among them Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.
Ramaphosa called on Israel to "immediately release the South Africans abducted in international waters" and free other nationals who have tried to deliver humanitarian aid. He stressed the interception violates international law and an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must flow unimpeded.
"This flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel," he said, urging that the life-saving cargo reach those in need.
As the situation unfolds, this episode underscores the growing international push for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza and raises critical questions about the legal and moral limits of naval blockades.
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South Africa urges Israel to free Gaza-bound flotilla activists
cgtn.com
