Mandla Mandela ‘abducted’ by Israeli forces during intercept of humanitarian flotilla
Activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, who was sailing to Gaza aboard a boat which is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, has been kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla in the early hours of Thursday.
Mandela prerecorded a message in case of interception by Israel.
“I’m a citizen of the Republic of South Africa. If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the state of apartheid Israel,” he said. “I call you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release.”
On Wednesday, Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), emphasised South Africa’s call for restraint and adherence to international law.
“South Africa wishes to reiterate, in the strongest terms, its call for all actors to adhere strictly to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and relevant international humanitarian law principles,” he said.
Phiri stressed that the safety and security of the flotilla’s participants, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance.
I’ve just heard that the boat, part of the Gaza air flotilla, carrying Mandla Mandela has been intercepted and that Mandela has been captured.
A Mandela being captured, yet again, while fighting for human rights and justice is a shocking repeat of history.
The fact that the… pic.twitter.com/eee09ggnNU— Brett Herron 🇿🇦🍉 (@brettherron) October 1, 2025
“The safety, security, and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the Flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance,” he added.
He warned that any military engagement or forceful detention of the vessels in international waters would constitute a serious breach of international norms. Phiri further highlighted the peaceful and humanitarian mission of the flotilla.
“It must be underscored that the Flotilla is a civilian-led initiative, embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission. Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering,” Phiri said.
Other South Africans who are part of the mission include Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Zukisa Wanner, Reaaz Moola, Bashera Soomar and Carolyn Shelver.
Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi shared his support of Mandela. “
“Mandla Mandela! Selfless brave soul. You make us eternally proud Madiba. Strength to the Sumud Flotilla, Free Palestine,” he said.
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