The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) is working to secure the release of Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, and four other South Africans reportedly detained by Israeli forces after their humanitarian flotilla to Gaza was intercepted in international waters.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has demanded the “immediate and unconditional” release of the group — which includes Carolyn Shelver, Dr Zaheera Soomar, Reaaz Moola, and Dr Fatima Hendricks — condemning Israel’s actions as a violation of international law and sovereignty.
“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. The flotilla’s interception 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,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region.
On behalf of our government and nation, I call on Israel to immediately release the…
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 2, 2025
Over 400 activists, including South African author Zukiswa Wanner, were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla delivering aid to Gaza when the Israeli navy seized their vessels.
Meanwhile, in Cape Town, pro-Palestine protestors have intensified calls for their release, staging demonstrations at the V&A Waterfront and Canal Walk. Protestors, led by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and the Palestine Support Group (PSG), also picketed outside Cape Union Mart, accusing its owner, Philip Krawitz, of supporting the Israeli state through his links to the Keren Hayesod Movement — a Zionist fundraising organisation.
“For two years since the genocide, the PSG has been protesting outside every branch of Cape Union Mart due to the owner’s open support for Israel,” SABC News quoted protestor Uzair Mohamed as saying.
“We’re out here boycotting Cape Union Mart because the owner has publicly declared his allegiance to Israel.”
According to IOL, The Healthcare Workers 4 Palestine South Africa (HCW4P-SA) has meanwhile commended the South African Medical Association (SAMA) for suspending ties with the Israeli Medical Association (IMA) and calling for its expulsion from the World Medical Association — describing the move as an act of “moral courage” and a stand against apartheid-like practices.
Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said the department is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the South Africans continue.
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Also see: Mandla Mandela allegedly arrested during Gaza aid mission- South Africans demand answers
