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Ramaphosa Urges Israel to Free Mandla Mandela After Flotilla Interception
Ramaphosa steps in after flotilla interception
President Cyril Ramaphosa has made a firm call for the release of South Africans detained by Israel during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, including Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela. The flotilla, made up of humanitarian vessels, was sailing toward Gaza with aid when it was surrounded by the Israeli navy in international waters on Wednesday.
According to Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, Israel’s actions not only deprived Gazans of vital supplies but also violated international law. The president stressed that South Africa expects the immediate release of all nationals and foreign activists who were taken into custody.
Mandela’s message from the sea
Before his detention, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela released a video in which he warned of the possibility of abduction by Israeli forces. He identified himself as a South African citizen and called on the government to act swiftly to secure his release. The clip has since circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage among South Africans who see the incident as both a human rights issue and a direct insult to the country’s history of anti-apartheid struggle.
Other South Africans reported to be on the flotilla include author Zukiswa Wanner and activist Reaaz Moolla, with confirmation still pending on several others.
South Africa’s stance on Gaza
Ramaphosa has consistently spoken out against Israel’s blockade of Gaza, describing it as a humanitarian catastrophe. He reminded the international community that the United Nations has called for unimpeded access for aid and insisted that humanitarian missions like the flotilla are acts of solidarity, not provocation.
He added that the interception went against the ruling of the International Court of Justice, which requires that aid must flow freely into Gaza. “This flotilla represents compassion, not conflict,” Ramaphosa said.
Israel’s justification
Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that its navy had intercepted several of the vessels, claiming they were approaching a combat zone. Officials said those on board were being transferred to port, and described the operation as a matter of security. Flotilla organisers, however, accused Israeli forces of using aggressive tactics to halt their journey.
Despite the interceptions, many boats were still pressing ahead toward Gaza by Thursday morning. At 3:20 am local time, the flotilla posted online that 30 vessels remained en route, just 46 nautical miles from the territory.
Why it matters
For South Africa, the detention of Mandela carries symbolic weight that extends beyond one family name. Nelson Mandela’s global legacy as a champion of justice makes the abduction of his grandson a politically charged moment that resonates deeply with South Africans and with international solidarity movements.
As calls grow louder for Israel to release the flotilla activists and allow aid into Gaza, Ramaphosa’s response highlights a broader message: that South Africa intends to remain vocal on global human rights issues, especially where its own citizens are involved.
Also read: Mandla Mandela Allegedly Abducted by Israeli Forces During Gaza Aid Mission – South Africans Demand Answers
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Source: The Citizen
Featured Image: Daily Voice
