Dirco confirms safety of South Africans detained in Gaza aid flotilla
A boat from the Global Sumud Flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces in the Mediterranean sea off the Gaza Strip waters, is escorted towards the southern port of Ashdod on October 2.
Image: Saeed Qaq / AFP
The group of South Africans detained in Israel after joining a Gaza-bound aid flotilla has been confirmed safe and healthy, with plans for their return home underway.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said on Sunday that its specialist team had met with the detainees at the Negev prison facility in Israel.
Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said, “Today our specialist team met with the South African delegation at the Negev Israeli prison facility."
"The delegation has confirmed the detainees are in good health and in high spirits.
"The necessary procedures for their safe passage and return home to SA are advancing steadily.”
The South Africans were among international activists aboard a flotilla carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza.
The vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces on Thursday before reaching their destination.
The flotilla, organised by pro-Palestinian groups, was reportedly transporting medical and relief supplies for civilians affected by the conflict in Gaza.
Following the interception, passengers were detained and questioned by Israeli authorities.
Among the South Africans confirmed to have been on board the flotilla are Mandla Mandela, grandson of the late former president Nelson Mandela; writer and cultural activist Zukiswa Wanner and activist Reaaz Moolla.
Dirco said it had been in constant contact with Israeli officials and diplomatic partners to ensure the safety and release of the detained South Africans.
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