6 SA flotilla activists captured by Israeli forces back on home soil

Johannesburg
Kgomotso Modise

Kgomotso Modise

8 October 2025 | 9:32

They were part of a group of international activists who had set out to deliver humanitarian aid to war-stricken Gaza on the Global Sumud Flotilla.

6 SA flotilla activists captured by Israeli forces back on home soil

The six South Africa Sumud flotilla activists addressed a media briefing following their arrival at the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on 8 October 2025. Picture: Kgomotso Modise/EWN

The six activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla have arrived at the OR Tambo International Airport after days of capture by Israeli forces.

The group was part of the activists from around the world who had set out to deliver humanitarian aid to war-stricken Gaza.

This week, the group was released and flew back to South Africa from Jordan.

The six activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla have walked into a packed arrivals terminal with big and small Palestinian flags being waved in the air.

As they walked through the doors, the crowd erupted in cheers, with loved ones rushing to hold the activists in a long embrace.

The grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla, who was one of the detainees addressed the media, becoming emotional as he recalled the events of the last week.

Despite being held hostage and being tortured by Israeli forces, the group remains defiant and adamant to continue supporting the plight of the Palestinians.

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