Activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, who was sailing to Gaza aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, has been kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla in the early hours of Thursday.
Mandela prerecorded a message in case of interception by Israel.
“I’m a citizen of the Republic of South Africa. If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the state of apartheid Israel,” he said.
“I call you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release.”
The flotilla’s South African group condemned the interception of its vessels by Israeli occupation forces in international waters, describing the attack as a deliberate attempt to block humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Delegates aboard the flotilla, which included South African civilians, were reportedly detained and faced drone and water cannon attacks.
Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the department of international relations and cooperation, on Wednesday emphasised South Africa’s call for restraint and adherence to international law.
“South Africa wishes to reiterate, in the strongest terms, its call for all actors to adhere strictly to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and relevant international humanitarian law principles,” he said.
Phiri stressed that the safety and security of the flotilla’s participants, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance.
“The safety, security, and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance,” he added.
He warned that any military engagement or forceful detention of the vessels in international waters would constitute a serious breach of international norms.
Phiri further highlighted the peaceful and humanitarian mission of the flotilla.
“It must be underscored that the flotilla is a civilian-led initiative, embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission. Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering,” Phiri said.
Other South Africans who are part of the mission include Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moola, Bashera Soomar and Carolyn Shelver.
Former Economic Freedom Fighters parliamentarian Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has shared his support for Mandela.
“Mandla Mandela. Selfless brave soul. You make us eternally proud Madiba. Strength to the Sumud Flotilla, free Palestine,” he says.
– IOL News
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