Mandla Mandela “Detained” During Interception of Global Sumud Flotilla
Pretoria, South Africa – October 2, 2025
Nkosi Zwelivelile “Mandla” Mandela, grandson of late South African president Nelson Mandela, has been detained by Israeli authorities after the interception of the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla off the coast of Gaza.
The flotilla, comprising dozens of vessels carrying medical supplies, food, and other aid for civilians in Gaza, was intercepted early on October 2. Reports indicate that Mandela, along with other international activists, was taken into custody during the operation.
Before the interception, Mandela released a video message stating that if he were intercepted, he and other participants would be “abducted by the state of apartheid Israel” and calling on the South African government to intervene for their release. The video has circulated widely on social media and news platforms.
The South African government, through President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, has demanded the immediate release of Mandela and other South African nationals. Ramaphosa described the interception as a violation of international law and called for the humanitarian cargo to be delivered to Gaza without delay.
At this stage, the exact number of South Africans detained remains unclear, and the government is working to verify the status of all participants. Mandela’s detention has sparked concern among activists, civil society groups, and international observers, who highlight the humanitarian and legal implications of intercepting aid vessels in international waters.
The situation is developing, with South Africa actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Mandela and other nationals aboard the flotilla.
