Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
04 October 2025 | 17:45 CAT

📸 South African delegation members, activists Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, Dr Zaheera Soomar, Dr Fatima Hendricks, Reaaz Moolla, Zukiswa Wanner and Carrie Shelver are currently under Israeli detention following the illegal interception of the Sumud Flotilla in international waters.

A humanitarian flotilla carrying international activists and aid for Gaza was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters earlier this week, sparking outrage from global human rights organisations and prompting calls from South Africa’s government for the release of detained citizens. Among those detained is South African activist Reaaz Moolla, whose wife, Zaheera Moolla, spoke to Radio Islam International following a brief call from her husband.

“We are holding up well with the support of our family and community,” Zaheera said, adding that the last conversation she had with her husband was moments before the interception. “He told me there was an Israeli boat very close to them, then the call cut.” Since then, she explained, communication has been blocked, and the families of detained activists are relying on consular updates.

According to Zaheera, the activists were initially held at Ashdod Holding Centre before being transferred to Ketziot prison in the Negev desert, where they were denied food for the first day. “It’s typical behaviour of Israelis where they try to intimidate people and degrade them, using fear tactics,” she said. Families are appealing for access to legal representation and basic human rights, including clean water and safe shelter.

Describing the incident as “a kidnapping and a war crime,” Zaheera strongly condemned Israel’s actions, noting that the flotilla was intercepted 40 nautical miles from Gaza’s coast, a clear violation of international maritime law. “This was a peaceful, nonviolent humanitarian mission. Their aim was to take aid into Gaza and to break the siege,” she said.

She emphasised that the operation, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, was not political but humanitarian. “We cannot allow somebody to kidnap people on international waters. What does that mean for other boats sailing in those waters?” she asked.

Speaking about her husband’s lifelong activism, Zaheera said, “Reaaz has been a humanitarian for as long as I know him, it’s an integral part of our family.” She called on ordinary citizens to act: “We cannot rely on governments alone. It’s up to the people to make a difference. Start small – in your own community – but stand up for what is right.”

While reports suggest that the activists may be deported to Europe within days, Zaheera said there has been no official confirmation. She urged the South African government to ensure their fair treatment. “Food and water are basic human rights. Our government must put pressure to ensure they are treated humanely, given access to lawyers, and returned home safely.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Moulana Habib Bobat and Zaheera Moolla, wife of the detained South African activist Reaaz Moolla.