Pretoria has condemned Israel following the arrest of South Africans aboard the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters.
Government has expressed serious concern over what it described as the abduction of South African citizens participating in the humanitarian mission. Officials warned that those detained could now face imprisonment in Israel despite being part of a civilian-led initiative aimed at delivering aid and raising awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the flotilla sought to highlight the urgent humanitarian needs of Palestinians in Gaza and deliver essential assistance to people living under occupation and amid allegations of genocide.
“Such developments raise serious humanitarian, legal and diplomatic concerns that cannot be treated lightly,” the department said in a statement.
“South Africa has a longstanding commitment to international law, the protection of human rights, and the safety and wellbeing of its citizens wherever they may be.”
DIRCO called for restraint, adherence to international law, and the immediate protection of the rights, dignity and safety of everyone involved.
“The safety, security and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance. Any forceful detention of these vessels in international waters constitutes a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rights,” the statement added.
The department said it would continue engaging relevant stakeholders and organisations working with the flotilla in efforts to secure the immediate release of those detained.
Last year, several South Africans, including Nkosi Zweli Mandela, grandson of former President Nelson Mandela, were detained by Israeli soldiers while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
