By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
Several South African activists who were on board the fleet of boats known as the Global Sumud Flotilla were abducted by the Israeli Navy from the flotilla which aimed at delivering aid to the people who are experiencing famine due to Israel’s blockade and the overall war between Israel and Palestine.
Among the activists who were abducted is grandson of Nelson Mandela, Nkosi Zwelivelile ‘Mandla’ Mandela, who in addition to being an activist is also the traditional chief of Mvezo, which is the birthplace of his grandfather. Mandla has been an avid supporter of Palestinian rights and joined the flotilla in order to carry his grandfather’s legacy of international solidarity and justice.
Another who is among those captured is researcher and feminist activist Carrie Shelver who has been known for her long standing advocacy for gender justice and human rights. Shelver has avidly spoken out against the injustices perpetrated against the Palestinian people and decided to join the flotilla to help deliver aid to Gaza.
Zukisa Wanner, accomplished writer and cultural activist is also among the captured as she is recognised in the African continent for her literary work as well as expressing commitment towards Pan-Africanism. Wanner is also the first African woman who has received the Goethe Medal for cultural contributions and has expressed her strong solidarity with Palestine.
Zaheera Soomar who is a specialist in education who has worked in civil society and various academic spaces is among the group of people abducted by the Israeli navy . Soomar has been involved in campaigns regarding quality in education, as well as campaigns advocating for gender equality and justice.
Reaz Moola who is a community and has been involved in numerous international solidarity campaigns and has also been a strong voice in the movement to end the siege against Gaza has also been among those captured.
Dr Fatima Hendricks who works as an occupational therapist doing extensive work in rehabilitating people in impoverished communities as well as remaining active in social justice campaigns is also among those abducted by Israeli forces.
“On behalf of our government and nation, I call on Israel to immediately release the South Africans abducted in International waters, and to release other nationals who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid,” said South African President Cyril Ramaphosa who released a statement to Israel to immediately release the South African citizens.
“The interception of the Flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of every nation whose flag was flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla…This action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded,” the statement read.
President Ramaphosa has expressed that Israel has yet again committed an offence against international law for blocking the efforts to deliver aid to Gaza and efforts of restoring peace within the Middle Eastern region.