Johannesburg – Mayibuye and Melisizwe Mandela, grandsons of Nelson Mandela, have called for the immediate release of their cousin, Nkosi Mandla Mandela, who was among nearly 500 activists detained by Israeli authorities during a humanitarian flotilla to Gaza.
The flotilla, which included Greta Thunberg, aimed to deliver aid and show solidarity with Palestinians under Israel’s blockade.
The Mandela grandsons condemned Israel’s actions as “unlawful and inhumane,” invoking Nelson Mandela’s words on Palestinian freedom and urging the UN and African Union to intervene.
“These freedom-loving men and women have shown extraordinary bravery, choosing not to remain silent in the face of genocide, occupation, and apartheid,” Mandela grandsons said in a statement on Thursday.
They added: “We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela and all detained activists. We call on the international community, the United Nations, the African Union, and progressive governments across the world to intervene without delay. The detained activists must be granted safe passage so they may continue their noble mission to Gaza.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa also condemned the interception, calling for the release of South Africans and other nationals detained during the operation in international waters.
“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 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…
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 2, 2025
He added: “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.
Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s support for UN calls to lift the Gaza blockade and allow humanitarian aid.
The detention has drawn widespread international criticism and renewed calls for an end to the blockade.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
