Supporters and family members of a group of activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla continue to anxiously wait for an update on their whereabouts.
The flotilla, consisting of about 50 boats carrying aid to Gaza, was blocked from reaching the port of Gaza on Thursday.
Cameras broadcasting live feeds from the boats showed armed Israeli soldiers in helmets and night vision goggles boarding the ships, while passengers were huddled in life vests with their hands up in the air.
Reuters reports that more than 450 foreign activists have been taken captive.
A number of South Africans are among the group, including Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela.
His nephew, Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, who is also an activist, said there has been no contact or further information received.
“I support the stance that was taken by the president, that we need an immediate release of those who were arrested, actually, they were not arrested, they were kidnapped unlawfully, if they wish to also proceed to Gaza and provide the humanitarian aid.
“It is wrong. We stand with the people of Palestine. The world has been crying… the United Nations has also said this is a crime against humanity, the genocide that is happening in Gaza.”
