Calls are mounting for government intervention following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla en route to the Gaza Strip carrying humanitarian aid.
South African nationals aboard the vessels were reportedly detained in international waters and may now be facing detention in Israel.
Six South Africans are among approximately 430 activists detained by Israeli forces during the operation.
Speaking to VOC News, Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said the government is in contact with diplomatic missions regarding the matter.
“We have contacts in Israel regarding this matter, and as we understand it through our embassy in Jordan, a number of these individuals have been offloaded from the ship and are now in Israeli territory, where they would be eligible for consular services through our mission in Ramallah as well as our mission in Jordan,” Phiri said.
He added that the detainees have reportedly been taken to detention centres while diplomatic efforts continue.
“We hope that we will be able to ensure that the Israeli government processes them and brings them back to South Africa as quickly as possible,” he said.
Phiri cautioned, however, that the situation remains complex and that the government is focused on maintaining communication and closely monitoring developments.
“What is important is constant engagement and understanding exactly where they are, and then from there engaging with the Israeli regime on what the next steps are,” he added.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: Supplied/Faizel Moosa
