The Israeli embassy says the detained South Africans who were part of a humanitarian mission aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) will be “expelled” from Jordan.
Among those detained are former Member of Parliament and Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, and Dr Fatima Hendricks.
South Africans, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have called for the immediate release of the citizens and for the humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza.
CITIZENS DEPORTED
Responding to an article headlined “Cyril Ramaphosa to Israel: Release them now!”, the Israeli embassy posted on X:
“We trust the Department of International Relations & Cooperation (DIRCO) 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 South Africans were on board the GSF boats that were intercepted in international waters. Ramaphosa said the interception contravenes international law and undermines the sovereignty of nations. He also described it as a violation of the International Court of Justice injunction.
ACTIVISTS REPORTED SAFE
In a message to the flotilla later shared on Instagram, Mandela said:
“This is Nkosi Zwelivelile on the Jordanian galaxy. Can you hear me? We are reporting that all our comrades, brothers, and sisters on the GSF are safe and on their way home.”
He also shared a personal message for his family, saying:
“Daddy’s coming home.”
Meanwhile, DIRCO said Minister Ronald Lamola extends his gratitude to all relevant parties, both domestically and internationally, for their cooperation and coordination in ensuring the safe return of the South African citizens.
