South African activists detained: EFF calls Israel's actions a direct attack
EFF criticises Israel's naval actions against South African activists.
Image: Lluis Gene / AFP
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has strongly condemned Israel's naval interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), branding it a "direct attack on our nation and its people" after detaining South African activists, including Zukiswa Wanner and Nkosi Zwelivelile 'Mandla' Mandela.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo accused Israel of deploying its navy to "capture the vessels, detain passengers, and silence voices of solidarity", describing it to be an apartheid state which is incapable of tolerating peace efforts.
The flotilla, comprising nearly 50 vessels and 500 activists, sought to deliver aid and breach Gaza's blockade.
Thambo called on Italy, Spain, and Greece to 'take a firm stand against Israel's piracy' and urged South Africa to secure the detainees' release.
"The kidnapping of South African citizens by a foreign military force cannot be tolerated," he said. "Across the world, outrage is growing… with ordinary people tired of Israel's impunity and brutality. No amount of military aggression will stop the global movement for Palestinian liberation."
Gift of the Givers chairperson and founder Dr Imtiaz Sooliman stated that Israel's move is no surprise.
"This is a terrorist, pariah, genocidal, apartheid state that has no respect for human rights," Sooliman said. "Israel violates every UN resolution, acts with impunity, kills babies, old people, pregnant women, journalists, healthcare workers and teachers. It bombs hospitals, clinics, schools, churches, mosques, refugee camps, and water plants."
He went on to say that the settler state prevents the entry of food, medical equipment, tents and medical personnel into Gaza.
"Were they going to say, 'welcome to the port of Gaza. Bring your aid and your people because we are very merciful and want you to feed the starving?' Was that expected from the most inhumane state in the world? The time has come to send in troops into Gaza to make sure that not a single bullet or bomb comes from Israel again."
Activist Irfaan Mangera applauded those who were a part of the flotilla and hailed their bravery in the face of danger.
"Heart and soul with the comrades and activists on the GSF who have been illegally abducted by the genocidal apartheid Israeli forces - just off the shores of Gaza. Hundreds of people carrying desperate aid for the starved population of Gaza. They are the bravest of us," he said.
In Gaza, many Palestinians had waited for much-need aid that never came onshore.
"After two years of siege, I imagined the fleet arriving to break the chains and bring us hope. But today, my dream is shattered…Thank you to all who tried to stand with us. I love you deeply," wrote content writer Khaldun Hamad.
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