The South Africa Palestine Movement (SAPM) added its voice to a global call for justice with a powerful solidarity flotilla at Durban Harbor on Sunday, 14 September 2025. The action, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, saw 34 boats sailing together to highlight the plight of Palestinians under siege in Gaza.
SAPM, which has long campaigned for Palestinian rights in South Africa, said the Durban action reaffirmed the country’s historic role in international solidarity struggles. “Our message is clear: just as the world stood with South Africans against apartheid, we too will stand with Palestinians until they are free,” the organisation declared.
The boats carried banners, Palestinian flags, and messages of resistance, while supporters lined North Beach with placards echoing calls for dignity, justice, and freedom. The action brought together activists, religious leaders, trade unions, youth movements, and community groups — united in their opposition to what SAPM describes as “apartheid Israel.”
The Global Sumud Flotilla, taking place in harbors across continents, symbolises steadfastness (sumud) against occupation and genocide. In Durban, organisers said the flotilla was not only about Gaza but about connecting South Africans’ own struggle for liberation with that of Palestine.
SAPM has renewed its calls for government and civil society to intensify action, including: an immediate end to the war in Gaza and lifting of the blockade, full participation in the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign; the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador from South Africa; and sustained solidarity actions until justice is achieved.
The organisation thanked the SAPS Water Wing, NSRI, and Port of Durban officials for ensuring the event was safe and orderly.
From the waters of Durban Harbor, SAPM’s flotilla joined a chorus of international voices declaring: “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.”
