Activists part of Global Sumud Flotilla call on South African government to cease all trade with Israel

Activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla have called on the South African government to cease all trade with Israel and ensure the safe return of five citizens being held in the country.

The South African nationals include Mandla Mandela, the grandson of the former president.

Those captured were on board the flotilla, which consisted of about 50 boats carrying aid to Gaza.

The flotilla was intercepted by the Israeli navy earlier this week as it approached the port of Gaza.

Palestine Solidarity Campaign organiser Usuf Chikte joined pro-Palestine supporters outside Parliament on Friday to echo the activists' call. 

 "We are asking the South African government to stop it, to ensure their safety. To ensure that they are provided with decent access to consular services for them to be returned to the boats."

The activists also called on government to stop trading with Israel, saying South Africa remains the third largest provider of coal to Israel in the world.

Mothers for Gaza co-ordinator Ayesha Vegas said, "We also want to call on our government to stop selling coal to Israel and to place sanctions on them."

Israel's foreign ministry said that the activists will be deported to Europe once they are released.