The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) stands in unwavering solidarity with the 10 South African internationalists and all the global compatriots who are part of the Global Sumud Flotilla to break the siege on Gaza. 

The Global Sumud Flotilla is the largest civilian maritime effort to confront the siege on Gaza and open a humanitarian sea corridor. South Africa’s delegation includes Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Jared Sacks, Elham Mouaffak Hatfield, Zukiswa Wanner, Irshaad Ahmed Chotia, Fazel Behra, Nurian Saloojee and Reaaz Moola.

The war on Gaza has become the most pressing humanitarian disaster of our times. 

COSATU further expresses unwavering solidarity with the courageous workers of the world who are part of this historic initiative. We particularly salute the courage of the Italian trade union movement for their firm pronouncement that they will shut down the whole of Europe if the Flotila is blocked or attacked. 

The Federation is set to hold its Central Committee (CC) from 15 to 18 September, during which it will receive reports on the current global context and struggles in order to intensify working class internationalism and solidarity. 

The crimes of war, genocide and apartheid are our struggles. No amount of economic bullying and blackmail shall stop the forward march to a free, democratic and just Palestine. 

We are determined that from the river to the sea, Palestine shall be free. 

Issued by COSATU

Bongani Masuku (COSATU International Secretary)
Mobile: 079 499 6419
Email: bongani@cosatu.org.za

Zanele Sabela (COSATU National Spokesperson)
Mobile: 079 287 5788 or 077 600 6639
Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za