South Africa Launches Probe into Arrival of Palestinians from Gaza
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced an investigation into the uncoordinated arrival of 153 Palestinians from Gaza on a chartered flight.
Arrival and Initial Refusal
The group landed at OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa, but their entry was initially denied due to a lack of customary departure stamps in their passports. They remained on the aircraft for over 10 hours during this period.
Resolution and Admittance
Following intervention by a local charity and a statement from President Ramaphosa citing government compassion, most of the individuals were eventually granted entry. Of the 153 travelers, 23 subsequently departed for other destinations, with 130 being admitted into South Africa.
Unclear Travel Circumstances
The circumstances surrounding the group's departure from Gaza and their travel route to South Africa remain unclear. President Ramaphosa characterized their arrival as "mysterious," noting the flight transited through Nairobi. Cogat, an Israeli military body, stated that the residents departed the Gaza Strip after receiving approval from a third country.
The Palestinian embassy in South Africa reported that the group flew from Israel's Ramon Airport via Nairobi, stating that no prior notification or coordination had occurred. The embassy also alleged that an "unregistered and misleading organization" had exploited the humanitarian situation in Gaza, deceived families, collected money, and facilitated their travel irregularly.
Official Entry Requirements and Clarifications
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber explained that while Palestinian passport holders are eligible for 90-day visa-exempt access to South Africa, the initial refusal was due to the absence of departure stamps, return tickets, or confirmed accommodation addresses for some travelers. Entry was subsequently approved once it was established that the travelers were not seeking asylum and their accommodation arrangements were confirmed. All individuals possessed valid passports, and none had applied for asylum at the time of entry.
Support and Calls for Further Investigations
The South African charity Gift of the Givers has committed to providing accommodation for the group. Civil society organizations in South Africa have called for investigations into the conditions the Palestinians faced in Gaza and the precise route of the aircraft. Gift of the Givers also urged an investigation into the home affairs ministry and border authority regarding the treatment of the Palestinians at the airport, citing instances such as extended waits on the tarmac and denial of food.
Diplomatic Context
South Africa has historically expressed strong support for the Palestinian cause, a stance that dates back to the anti-apartheid era. The country has seen numerous pro-Palestinian demonstrations since the recent conflict began in Gaza. In 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel with the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel has rejected.