INTERCEPTION OF GLOBAL FLOTILLA TO GAZA SPARKS OUTRAGE

Ramaphosa demands release of detained South Africans

- XOLILE MTEMBU AND GENEVIEVE SERRA

IN A show of support for Gaza, Healthcare Workers 4 Palestine - South Africa (HCW4P-SA) held protests at various healthcare facilities in South Africa. The demonstrations aimed to express solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla, which is facing illegal attacks while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. | AYANDA NDAMANE Independent Newspapers

(AYANDA NDAMANE Independent Newspapers)

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa has been supported by his call for the Israeli government to immediately release South Africans and other nationals detained after Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters off Gaza.

The flotilla, comprising dozens of humanitarian vessels, was on a mission to deliver aid to Palestinians living under blockade. In a strongly worded statement, President Ramaphosa condemned Israel's actions.

“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,” Ramaphosa said.

Author and activist Zukiswa Wanner, a South African citizen currently based in Kenya, had recorded a video before the flotilla’s interception, anticipating the possibility of detention.

“If you are watching this, it means I have been kidnapped by the Israeli occupying forces and taken to Israel,” she said. “Please tell the South African government to get me released.”