South African author and editor Zukiswa Wanner is among several South Africans detained after the Israeli navy intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla bound for Gaza on October 2.

In a statement, the South African Presidency said the incident amounted to the “abduction” of South African nationals and called for their “immediate release.”

According to Reuters, Israeli forces stopped more than 40 vessels carrying hundreds of participants. Israeli officials said the action was to enforce the existing naval blockade of Gaza and that humanitarian aid could be routed through established channels. Flotilla organizers and several governments, including South Africa, condemned the interception and called for access to those detained.

South African outlets including News24 and ENCA reported that other nationals detained include Nkosi Zwelivelile “Mandla” Mandela, Reaaz Moola, and Dr. Fatima Hendricks. The Nelson Mandela Foundation also issued a statement demanding their release.

The location of the interception remains contested. Organizers of the Global Sumud Flotilla said it occurred in international waters, while Israeli authorities described the area as part of an active combat zone (Reuters).

In a recent News24 interview, Wanner explained her decision to participate in the flotilla, saying she joined out of hope and a commitment to humanitarian solidarity.

As of this report, Israeli authorities have not released detailed information on the legal status of the detainees or the timeline for their release.