DIRCO Denies Government Funded Repatriation of South African Global Sumud Flotilla Activists

Pretoria, 08 October 2025 – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has firmly rejected claims that the South African government paid for the return of local activists detained in Israel while part of the Global Sumud Flotilla. Officials clarified that the costs were covered by the activists’ families and solidarity groups, with the state’s role limited to diplomatic support. The six South Africans landed safely at OR Tambo International Airport this morning, welcomed by emotional loved ones and media after a short stay in Jordan. Ambassador to Jordan Tselane Mokuena received them there on behalf of the nation. Minister Ronald Lamola thanked all involved for their help in bringing them home.

The flotilla, stopped by Israeli forces in international waters last week, aimed to deliver aid to Gaza and spotlight the Palestinian crisis. This event has sparked talks on humanitarian rights and South Africa’s stand on global conflicts. As the activists share their stories, many praise their bravery while calling for peace in the region. The group’s safe return marks the end of a tense few days, but it also shines a light on the risks of such missions.

Government Clarifies Funding and Role in Repatriation

The department made it clear: “The South African Government’s role has been one of diplomatic facilitation and engagement with all relevant parties.”
They worked with Israeli officials to secure the release, but money for travel came from private sources. This shuts down rumours of taxpayer funds being used.
The activists left Israel for Jordan on Tuesday, then flew home, arriving around 09:30 today. Families and supporters greeted them warmly at the airport.

Minister Lamola reiterated: “The South African government remains committed to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.”
He expressed profound gratitude to stakeholders for their cooperation.

Who Are the South African Activists Involved?

• The six locals on the flotilla were Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver.
• They joined an international group to break the Gaza blockade and deliver help. Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s grandson, has long backed Palestinian rights.
• Their detention lasted several days in Israeli prisons before deportation.
• The Global Sumud Flotilla’s Mission and Interception
• The Global Sumud Flotilla is a civil society effort started in June 2025 to send aid to Gaza, raise awareness of Palestinian needs and push for an end to the conflict.
• The boats set off from Barcelona, Spain, in early September with over 470 people from many countries. Israeli navy stopped them in international waters as they neared Gaza.
• Israeli police arrested everyone on board. On Monday, their foreign ministry said on X that 171 activists, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, were deported to places like Greece, Italy, France, Ireland, Sweden, Poland, Germany, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Austria, Luxembourg, Finland, Denmark, Slovakia, Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Serbia and the United States.
• The South Africans were among 131 sent to Jordan via the Allenby Bridge.

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