Ramaphosa calls on Israel to release flotilla activists
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Israel to release the pro-Palestinian activists who were intercepted while sailing to Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla of around 45 vessels began its voyage to Gaza last month, with Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela and Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg among those on board.
The flotilla is aiming to break Israel's siege of the Palestinian territory, where the United Nations says famine has set in.
The Israeli navy began intercepting vessels on Wednesday after warning the activists against entering waters it says fall under its blockade.
In a statement, Ramaphosa described Israel’s actions as a violation of international law.
He also demanded the immediate release of all the South Africans.
“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.
“On behalf of our government and nation, I call on Israel to immediately release the South Africans abducted in international waters, and to release other nationals who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid.
“The interception of the flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of every nation whose flag was flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla.
“This action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded.
“South Africa calls on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, as the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel.”
Israel has said it will deport the activists to Europe.
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