The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is calling for the protection of human rights, following the illegal interception by Israel of the Global Sumud Flotilla, near the coast of Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, a group of activists carrying humanitarian aid to genocide-afflicted Gaza, was blocked by Israel in international waters on Thursday.
Among those detained are South Africans Zukiswa Wanner, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela – late former president Nelson Mandela’s grandson – and Razz Moola.
According to the EFF, Israel has directly violated human rights, which has led to the wide spread of protests across the world.
Ramaphosa reacts to abduction of activists
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa also criticised Israel’s interception of the flotilla, stating it undermines global solidarity efforts.
The president said the Global Sumud Flotilla’s aim is to advance peace in Gaza.
He claimed that the interception of the flotilla is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of nations that are part of it.
“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,” Ramaphosa said.
Ramaphosa emphasised the need for humanitarian aid, claiming that Israel has violated the International Court of Justice ruling.
Ramaphosa further called on Israel to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He highlighted that the flotilla aims to show solidarity with Gaza, not to provoke Israel.
“My thoughts are with all of the abductees and their families and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East,” he said.
Additionally, Ramaphosa said South Africa supports the United Nations High Commissioner’s call for the protection of Human Rights for Palestinians, and for Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza.
