JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 7 (Xinhua) -- The South African activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, who were detained in Israel, have been released and arrived safely in Jordan, according to the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the department confirmed that South African Ambassador to Jordan Tselane Mokuena was present to receive the activists.
It added that International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola reiterates the government's gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the successful outcome through their cooperation and support.
Their release follows several days of detention by the Israeli authorities after their vessels were intercepted at sea while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Among the South Africans detained in Israel was Mandla Mandela, grandson of late former President Nelson Mandela.
With the Israeli government blocking aid deliveries to Gaza, activists from around the world established the Global Sumud Flotilla, using vessels to deliver humanitarian aid and medical supplies to the people of Gaza. ■
