'We stand with the people of Palestine' - Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela's nephew calls for his release

Several South Africans, including the grandson of Nelson Mandela, are among those detained by Israel after a convoy of humanitarian vessels headed to Gaza was intercepted on Wednesday.

South Africans who were on board the flotilla include author Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks, Carrie Shelver and Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela.

The flotilla of 41 ships with more than 400 people aboard, including politicians and climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, was halted by the Israeli navy on Wednesday.

Yesterday (Thursday), President Cyril Ramaphosa called on the Israeli government to release the South Africans and other nationals detained.

Madiba's nephew, Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, is calling for his uncle's release.

"We need an immediate release," said Mandela. "They were kidnapped.

"We stand with the people of Palestine. The whole world has been crying, the United Nations has also said this is a crime against humanity, what is happening in Gaza."

ALSO READ: South African Jewish activist joins global flotilla to bring aid to Gaza

This past weekend, protesters handed over a memo to Parliament calling on the government to cease trade ties with Israel.

South Africa brought a case of genocide before the International Court of Justice in December 2023.

However, it has stopped short of shutting down the Israeli Embassy in Pretoria and ending trade relations.

"We call for the South African government to also sanction the Israeli Embassy in South Africa," says Mandela.

"Nelson Mandela once said, 'If the Palestinians are not free, we are not yet free as South Africa."

Israel said the flotilla was "violating a lawful naval blockade" that covers the waters next to Gaza, though it is unclear if the boats had entered that zone.

Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela in conversation with Lester Kiewit.

Listen below: