Israel Deports Gaza Flotilla Activists, Mandla Mandela And Greta Thunberg Among Those Detained In Notorious Prison

Global Sumud Flotilla Intercepted: Activists Detained En Route to Gaza

The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), a convoy of approximately 40 vessels carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, was intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters this week. Hundreds of activists, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, have been detained, sparking international condemnation and protests. The activists aimed to break the Israeli blockade and deliver essential supplies to the Gaza Strip.

Key Figures and Their Detentions

Among those detained is Nkosi Zwelivelile "Mandla" Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, who warned of his potential abduction in a pre-recorded video. Greta Thunberg, the Swedish climate activist, was also among those taken into custody. Other South African citizens on board included Dr. Fatima Hendricks, Zukiswa Wanner, Dr. Zaheera Soomar, Reaaz Moola, Basheerah Soomar, and Carolyn Shelver.

Before his detention, Mandla Mandela stated, “If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the apartheid state of Israel. I call on you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release.”

Israel's Justification and Actions

Israel maintains that the flotilla was violating a lawful naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the activists are being "safely and peacefully" transferred to Israel, where deportation procedures are underway. However, reports indicate that the activists may be held at Ketziot Prison, a facility where allegations of torture and mistreatment have been made by former Palestinian detainees.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the navy's interception, stating, "Their important action prevented dozens of vessels from entering the war zone and repelled a campaign of delegitimisation against Israel."

International Reactions and Condemnation

The interception has drawn widespread condemnation from international bodies and governments. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for the immediate release of all those detained. He said, “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.”

Amnesty International South Africa condemned the detentions as "unlawful" and demanded accountability for the safety of the detainees. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) described the interception as a "brutal and unlawful attack" and a violation of international law.

“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,” said President Ramaphosa.

Allegations of Mistreatment and Detention Conditions

Concerns have been raised regarding the conditions of detention, particularly at Ketziot Prison. Former Palestinian detainees have alleged instances of sexual abuse, severe beatings, medical negligence, and deprivation of basic necessities. These claims are currently being investigated.

Rabia Mandela, Mandela's wife, expressed concern for his safety, stating, "We are very worried about him, his safety, and we pray for his return to us."

The Fate of the Detainees and Future Implications

While Israel claims that all detainees will be deported, human rights groups warn that some may face longer detentions or entry bans. The involvement of high-profile figures like Thunberg and Mandela is expected to intensify diplomatic pressure. The situation remains fluid, with continued efforts to secure the release of all detainees and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.