The South African government has called on Israel not to hurt the activists in the Global Sumud Flotilla as they navigate the high-risk area in the Mediterranean Sea.

This comes following reports of unidentified drone activity in the early hours of Wednesday morning, which the flotilla’s organisers say was conducted by Israeli vessels.

The Minister of International Relations Spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, further called for restraint and protection of the flotilla.

“We urge utmost restraint and caution against any unilateral actions that could escalate the situation or endanger human life. The safety, security, and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance. Any military engagement with or forceful detention of these vessels in international waters would constitute a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rightsm,” says Phiri.