Mandla Mandela Breaks Down: Emotional Press Conference After Israel Detention

Mpho Dube
Oct 8
2 min read

Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

Johannesburg, South Africa - Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, choked back tears during a press conference at O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, after being detained and deported by Israel.

Mandela's emotional response came as he recounted the harrowing conditions he and fellow activists endured in Israeli custody while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

Mandela described his experience as "torture and humiliation," his voice cracking with emotion. He recalled being handcuffed with cable ties that cut into his skin and being paraded in front of spectators like a prisoner. The memory of the six days spent in Israeli detention clearly weighed heavily on him. Despite the pain, Mandela's thoughts were with the Palestinian people, whom he believes are suffering far more.

Mandela's dedication to the Palestinian cause is unwavering. In a previous speech at the "Palestine: The Central Issue of the Nation" conference in Sana’a, Yemen, he expressed his support for Palestine, even chanting "Viva Hamas." His activism is a testament to his grandfather's legacy of fighting for justice and human rights.

As Mandela stepped up to the microphone, flanked by supporters and family members, the weight of his grandfather's legacy was palpable. Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid, knowing firsthand the pain of oppression. His grandson's emotional response was a reminder that the struggle for justice is ongoing, and the torch has been passed to a new generation.

Mandela's emotional appeal serves as a call to action for the international community to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His experience may have been traumatic, but it has also galvanized his resolve to continue advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people. As The Azanian, we stand in solidarity with Mandla Mandela and the countless others who are fighting for justice and humanity.