South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Israel to immediately free Gaza-bound activists detained at sea after the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla 🚢. In a statement on Thursday, he stressed that these volunteers set sail to deliver life-saving food and medical supplies to Palestinians in Gaza.
The flotilla, made up of around 50 vessels with over 500 volunteers from more than 40 countries, has faced drone strikes and intimidation since August as it headed toward the Gaza Strip ✈️. On Wednesday night, Israeli naval forces intercepted about 40 boats, diverting them to the port of Ashdod.
Reports say Israel plans to expel the activists, including at least six South Africans—among them Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela. Ramaphosa described their detention in international waters as "a grave offense" against global solidarity and international law ✊.
"The interception of the flotilla in international waters violates the sovereignty of every nation whose flag flew on those vessels," Ramaphosa said, urging Israel to respect an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must flow unimpeded 🆘.
On behalf of South Africa, he demanded that all detained nationals be released immediately and that the humanitarian cargo reach Gaza without delay. "This mission represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel," he added 🙏.
The statement comes as young leaders and activists across Asia and beyond mobilize online to support unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza, sharing news and raising awareness through hashtags like #GazaRelief and #HumanitarianAid 🌏.
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South Africa urges Israel to free Gaza-bound flotilla activists
cgtn.com
