Any forced detention of humanitarian vessels in international waters is a grave breach of legal norms and human rights, Pretoria has warned

The South African government has condemned what it called the "illegal abduction" of its nationals aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led humanitarian mission bound for Gaza that was reportedly intercepted by Israeli forces.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said it viewed the incident with "grave concern", warning that South African citizens may now be detained or imprisoned in Israel following the seizure of the vessel.

"The Government of South Africa notes with grave concern reports that following the illegal seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) bound for Gaza, South African nationals have been abducted in international waters and may now be facing detention/imprisonment in Israel," the department said.

The flotilla was described by the government as a peaceful humanitarian initiative aimed at drawing international attention to the worsening crisis in Gaza while delivering aid to Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.

"It must be underscored that the Flotilla, a civilian-led initiative embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission," Dirco said.

"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 of a people living under occupation and genocide."

South Africa said the developments raised "serious humanitarian, legal and diplomatic concerns" and reaffirmed the country's commitment to international law and the protection of human rights.

"The safety, security and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the Flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance," the department added.

The department further warned that "any forceful detention of these vessels in international waters constitutes a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rights."

Pretoria said it would engage relevant stakeholders and organisations linked to the flotilla in efforts to secure the release of those affected.

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"We will be engaging all relevant stakeholders and organisations liaising with the GSF as part of efforts to secure the safe and immediate release of those affected, while ensuring that their families are kept fully abreast of developments as the situation unfolds," the department said.

South Africa also called on the international community to ensure the protection of humanitarian missions and adherence to international law.

"We further call upon the international community and all relevant parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to ensure the safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian missions," Dirco said in conclusion.

First published by IOL