The International Relations Department (DIRCO) has condemned the illegal seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla, with South African nationals on board.  

The flotilla of about 50 ships was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza but was intercepted on international waters near Cyprus on Monday.  

The Global Sumud Flotilla said on social media that Israeli military vessels intercepted, with reports that forces opened fire on some boats.  

📹 Las fuerzas israelíes abren fuego contra los últimos barcos de la flotilla https://t.co/fK7gy89sAR pic.twitter.com/f1o5LHwTMm

— EL PAÍS (@el_pais) May 19, 2026

Israeli authorities said 430 activists part of the flotilla are being transferred to Israel. According to reports, one of those activists includes South African humanitarian ambassador Faizel Moosa.

Another PR flotilla has come to an end. All 430 activists have been transferred to Israeli vessels and are making their way to Israel, where they will be able to meet with their consular representatives.

This flotilla has once again proved to be nothing more than a PR stunt at…

— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) May 19, 2026

DIRCO said it is concerned for the South Africans on board who have been abducted and could be facing detention or imprisonment in Israel.  

“Such developments raise serious humanitarian, legal and diplomatic concerns that cannot be treated lightly. South Africa has a longstanding commitment to international law, the protection of human rights and the safety and well-being of its citizens wherever they may be.” 

It has called for the immediate protection of all concerned. 

“The safety, security and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the Flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance. Any forceful detention of these vessels in international waters constitutes a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rights.” 

DIRCO highlighted that the flotilla is a civilian-led and peaceful mission, which is raising awareness on the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people. 

As such, it called on the international community to, in their capacity, uphold the safe passage of humanitarian missions. 

A flotilla with several South Africans, including Mandla Mandela, had been intercepted last year as well. 

ALSO READ: Calls for release of Global Sumud Flotilla members detained by Israel – Smile 90.4FM

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