South African activists from Global Sumud Flotilla returning from Israel

THE South Africans who were detained in Israel after participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla are set to be released and repatriated today.

- XOLILE MTEMBU and AFP

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) received formal notification from Israeli authorities regarding the status of the detained South Africans.

Six South Africans were among dozens of activists who were detained when Israeli naval forces intercepted boats in the flotilla last week. They are Nkosi Zwelivelile ‘Mandla’ Mandela, Nelson Mandela's grandson; Zukiswa Wanner, Carrie Shelver, Dr Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar and Reaz Moola.

According to AFP, the 45-vessel flotilla had been aiming to break an Israeli blockade to deliver aid to Gaza, where the United Nations says famine has taken hold after two years of devastating conflict.

Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said the government has received confirmation of the imminent release of the individuals.

“We have received confirmation that the individuals in question are scheduled to be released from detention and will be repatriated, departing via Jordan tomorrow morning,” he said.