Mandla Mandela ‘abducted’ by Israeli forces during intercept of humanitarian flotilla
Israeli forces intercept Global Sumud Flotilla, kidnap Mandla Mandela.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/Independent Newspapers
Activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, who was sailing to Gaza aboard a boat which is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), has been kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla in the early hours of Thursday.
Mandela prerecorded a message in case of interception by Israel.
"I'm a citizen of the Republic of South Africa. If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the state of apartheid Israel," he said. "I call you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release."
The South African group of the flotilla has condemned the interception of its vessels by Israeli occupation forces in international waters, describing the attack as a deliberate attempt to block humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Delegates aboard the flotilla, which included South African civilians, were reportedly detained and faced drone and water cannon attacks.
In a statement, the Global Sumud Flotilla (GDF) confirmed that the Israeli occupation forces ambushed the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, detaining some of the delegates and attacking the vessels with drones and water cannons.
"These actions represent yet another attempt to silence voices of solidarity and to prevent even the smallest lifeline of relief from reaching Gaza. This is illegal under international law," the GDF said in a statement.
The organisation emphasised that the flotilla's mission was purely humanitarian and peaceful.
"The GSF was carrying civilians committed to drawing attention to the devastating conditions faced by Palestinians. Their mission is peaceful. Their objective is humanitarian. Their interception exposes once more the reality that Gaza is held under siege not only by walls and checkpoints, but by warships, drones, and policies of isolation."
The GSF called on the South African government to act immediately to ensure the safe return of its citizens.
"The Global Sumud Flotilla - RSA demands the immediate and unconditional release of all the delegates with full access to their lawyers, and for Israel to respect all international laws and measures governing the protection of civilians and humanitarian missions, the unhindered delivery of the humanitarian aid, and the lifting of the siege that continues to strangle Gaza," they said.
On Wednesday, Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), emphasised South Africa's call for restraint and adherence to international law.
"South Africa wishes to reiterate, in the strongest terms, its call for all actors to adhere strictly to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and relevant international humanitarian law principles," he said.
Phiri stressed that the safety and security of the flotilla's participants, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance.
"The safety, security, and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the Flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance," he added.
He warned that any military engagement or forceful detention of the vessels in international waters would constitute a serious breach of international norms. Phiri further highlighted the peaceful and humanitarian mission of the flotilla.
"It must be underscored that the Flotilla is a civilian-led initiative, embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission. Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering," Phiri said.
Other South Africans who are part of the mission include Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Zukisa Wanner, Reaaz Moola, Bashera Soomar and Carolyn Shelver.
Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi shared his support of Mandela. "
"Mandla Mandela! Selfless brave soul. You make us eternally proud Madiba. Strength to the Sumud Flotilla, Free Palestine," he said.
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