Israel’s Nir Oz kibbutz, which was raided during the 7 October 2023 attack, is holding a memorial ceremony to commemorate those killed by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israel supporters gathered in Manchester, England, ahead of the anniversary, just days after two people were killed in the city on Yom Kippur.

In Spain, activists from the Gaza humanitarian aid flotilla arrived in Madrid after flying back from Tel Aviv, alleging mistreatment and violations of their rights by Israeli authorities.

At the same time, a team from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has visited six detained South African citizens held at Israel’s Negev prison facility. The group was among activists intercepted by Israeli naval forces last week while aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aimed to deliver aid to Gaza.

Officials say procedures are now underway to secure their safe return home. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Israel-based National Spokesperson of the South African Zionist Federation, Rolene Marks.