Overview

• Six South African participants in the Global Sumud flotilla, including Mandla Mandela, arrived at OR Tambo after detention and deportation from Israel.
• The group alleges targeted mistreatment that included hijabs being removed, forced strip searches, tight cable-tie restraints, denial of showers, and rifles pointed at detainees.
• Several activists say they were singled out because South Africa has taken Israel to the ICJ and referenced the ICC over alleged genocide in Gaza.
• Israel’s Foreign Ministry denies abuse claims and says detainees were offered voluntary deportation, as deportations continue and dozens of international activists reportedly remain in custody with some on hunger strike.
• Organisers and rights groups argue the flotilla was seized unlawfully in international waters, while Mandla Mandela urges Pretoria to take tougher measures against Israel and South Africa’s DIRCO says it facilitated the activists’ release and will review the complaints.