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South African Activists Return Home After Detention in Israel: “Daddy Is Coming Home”
“Daddy Is Coming Home”: South African Activists Return After Israeli Detention
South Africans woke up to relief and celebration this morning as the six activists who were detained by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) humanitarian mission to Gaza finally landed back on home soil.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed that the delegation touched down at O.R. Tambo International Airport at around 9:30am on Wednesday, following a tense few days that had left their families and supporters anxiously awaiting updates.
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From Detention to Safe Return
DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri announced on Tuesday that the activists had been safely received in Jordan, where South African Ambassador Tselane Mokuena personally welcomed them before their return flight home.
“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirms the safe arrival of the Flotilla activists in Jordan. Our ambassador, Her Excellency Tselane Mokuena, was present to receive the delegation on behalf of the Republic,” said Phiri.
Among the six were Dr. Fatima Hendricks, Nkosi Zwelivelile ‘Mandla’ Mandela, Reaaz Moola, Carrie Shelver, Dr. Zaheera Soomar, and Zukiswa Wanner all part of a humanitarian mission aimed at delivering aid to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
A Message of Hope
In a heartfelt video shared by Mandela’s wife, Nosekeni Rabia Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela appeared relieved and in good spirits.
“Please tell my wife that I am coming home,” he said with a warm smile. “She must tell my kids Mandela, Rolihlahla, and Nonhlanhla, that daddy is coming home. Looking forward to seeing you all. Inshallah.”
The video quickly spread across South African social media, drawing emotional responses from users who praised the activists’ courage and expressed gratitude for their safe return.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Seeing Mandla Mandela say those words hit home. Whatever your politics, these are South Africans who risked everything for humanity.”
Government Thanks Supporters, Rejects Misinformation
Justice Minister Ronald Lamola, speaking on behalf of the government, expressed appreciation for everyone who played a role in securing the activists’ release.
“I hereby confirm the release of Dr Fatima Hendricks, Mandla Mandela, Reaaz Moola, Carrie Shelver, Dr Zaheera Soomar, and Zukiswa Wanner,” Lamola said. “They were involved in a noble cause for humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. We continue to call for all fighting to cease.”
However, the ministry also moved quickly to dispel rumours circulating online, particularly claims that taxpayers had footed the bill for the activists’ return.
DIRCO spokesperson Phiri clarified that no public funds were used for the delegation’s repatriation. “The delegation’s return is being facilitated with financial support from their families and solidarity groups,” he said. “The South African government’s role has been one of diplomatic facilitation and engagement with all relevant parties.”
Social Media Debate Over Taxpayer Costs
Despite official clarification, some public figures continued to stir debate online. Renaldo Gouws, a former politician known for his controversial commentary, posted on X:
“Why are South African taxpayers paying for the deportation flights of the six South Africans who were arrested by the Israeli Military Forces? This money should be recovered from them individually.”
The comment drew immediate backlash, with users accusing Gouws of “politicizing a humanitarian crisis” and “spreading misinformation.” Many pointed to the government’s statement confirming that no state funds were used.
A Moment of Reflection
The Global Sumud Flotilla was launched as part of an international humanitarian effort to deliver aid and solidarity to Palestinians amid Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza. While their detention by Israeli authorities drew outrage from human rights groups, their safe return has been widely celebrated in South Africa a country whose own struggle for liberation continues to shape its stance on global justice.
As the activists reunite with their families, many South Africans see their journey as symbolic of something deeper: a reminder of the country’s enduring empathy for the oppressed and its historical solidarity with Palestine.
In the words of one supporter waiting at O.R. Tambo this morning:
“They left as activists, but they’ve come back as ambassadors of peace.”
{Source: IOL}
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