Johannesburg – Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, has described the ordeal of the South African Flotilla activists who were abducted by the Israelis, but insisted it was nothing compared to the suffering of Palestinians.
The six Flotilla activists, including Mandla Mandela, arrived safely in South Africa on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, at O.R. Tambo International Airport.
The activists, who were part of the more than 50 boats of the Flotilla, were abducted by Israeli authorities on 2 October 2025.
The Flotilla, a civilian-led initiative, embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission.
Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering.
The South Africans and others were detained at the Negev Israeli prison facility.
When they were released, they were taken to Jordan before heading home to South Africa.
Commenting on their ordeal, Mandela said: “We were handcuffed with cable ties, tied tightly behind our backs, taken off our boats and put on the platform paraded for all the Israelis and the allies in Europe and the West and the global community to see, but it’s nothing compared to what Palestinians have been subjected to on a daily basis.
“This can never be about us; the narrative has to constantly be about the Palestinians and the atrocities that are daily meted [out] against them.”
The Department of International Relations and Co-operation has confirmed the safe arrival of the Flotilla activists in South Africa.
“Minister Lamola reiterates the government’s profound gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to this successful outcome through their cooperation and support,” said Chrispin Phiri, Ministry Spokesperson.
He, however, added: “We have noted deliberate misinformation related to government’s role in this process.”
The delegation’s return was facilitated with the financial support of their families and solidarity groups.
Phiri explained that the South African government’s role has been one of diplomatic facilitation and engagement with all relevant parties.
On their way home from Israel, the Flotilla activists first went to Jordan.
“Our Ambassador, Her Excellency Tselane Mokuena, was present to receive the delegation on behalf of the Republic,” said Phiri.
