Nosekeni Rabia Mandela has expressed immense relief after confirmation that her husband, activist Mandla Mandela, and other South Africans detained in Israel will soon be released.
The group had been detained while participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which delivers aid to Gaza.
“Their tireless efforts secured the release of the South African delegation.”
MEDIA STATEMENT | Update on the Welfare of Flotilla Delegates pic.twitter.com/ZVeSy5c9X2
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) October 5, 2025
Meanwhile, the Israeli embassy confirmed on Monday that all South African activists detained last week will be released on Tuesday.
The group was intercepted on the GSF Flotilla while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for their release, the embassy stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the activists would be expelled via Jordan, adding that South African taxpayers would cover the cost of their deportation.
Mr. President @CyrilRamaphosa:
We trust @DIRCO_ZA has informed you that all South Africans who tried to enter illegally will be expelled tomorrow via Jordan.
As always, it’s the South African taxpayers who get the honor of paying for their fellow citizens’ deportation tickets. https://t.co/H9R0pkjbvQ
— Embassy of Israel SA (@IsraelinSA) October 6, 2025
“Mr. President Cyril Ramaphosa: We trust DIRCO ZA has informed you that all South Africans who tried to enter illegally will be expelled tomorrow via Jordan. As always, it’s the South African taxpayers who get the honour of paying for their fellow citizens’ deportation tickets,” the embassy said.
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Also see: SA pushes for Mandla Mandela’s release
