Faizel Moosa was taking part in a civilian flotilla seeking to deliver aid to the Palestinian enclave, his family has said
Former South African ambassador to Qatar and humanitarian activist Faizel Moosa has been detained by Israeli authorities while taking part in a civilian flotilla carrying aid to Gaza, according to his family.
According to a statement released on Monday, Moosa was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international civil society initiative aiming to deliver essential supplies and draw attention to the ongoing blockade of Gaza, which activists say restricts access to food, medical assistance and other critical resources for civilians.
The family expressed deep concern about his safety and wellbeing, noting that Moosa has diabetes and depends on chronic medication.
”Any disruption in access to his medication, proper nutrition, and medical care places him at serious and immediate risk. He undertook this mission out of a deep commitment to humanity and justice. Our only concern now is his safety and that he is returned home without harm,” said a family spokesperson.
The family has called on the South African government to act urgently. They specifically urged Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to seek information about Moosa’s condition and whereabouts, ensure his medical needs are met, and pursue diplomatic channels to secure his release.
Moosa has been described by his family as a humanitarian, anti-apartheid activist and struggle veteran. He is also the son of the late anti-apartheid figure and judge Essa Moosa.
”His detention raises serious humanitarian and diplomatic concerns. We urge members of the public, civil society, and the media to amplify this call and support the campaign to bring him and all the other participants home safely. This is not just a diplomatic matter, it is a matter of life, dignity, and humanity. We urge immediate action to ensure his safe return and the release of all those detained,” read the statement.
The Israeli Navy has begun to intercept the activist mission sailing to the Gaza Strip to challenge Israel’s naval blockade. pic.twitter.com/YXeSwxPDOd
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 18, 2026
