South Africa Probes Mystery Flight After Israel Says Country Approved Entry For 153 Gazans Kept On Plane For

November 20, 2025 at 05:38 AM•1 min read•Aditi

South Africa probes 'mystery flight': Why were 153 Gazans held on a plane for 12 hours?

Key Points

1South Africa launches probe into a 'mystery flight' carrying 153 Gazan passengers.
2Passengers were detained on board for 12 hours due to a lack of Israeli departure stamps on their travel documents.
3South Africa's home affairs ministry granted entry after humanitarian group Gift of the Givers offered housing.

South African authorities have launched an investigation into a 'mystery flight' that saw 153 Gazan passengers detained on board an aircraft for approximately 12 hours after landing. This unusual incident prompted a probe by South Africa's home affairs ministry, raising questions about international travel protocols and passenger welfare during extended on-board delays at an airport.

The prolonged detention stemmed from issues with the passengers' travel documents. Upon arrival, it became apparent that the Gazan individuals lacked the necessary departure stamps issued by Israeli authorities, complicating their entry into South Africa. This administrative hurdle created a standoff, with passengers unable to disembark despite having reached their destination.

Ultimately, South Africa's home affairs ministry granted the passengers entry into the country. This resolution followed an intervention by the humanitarian organization, Gift of the Givers, which committed to providing housing for the new arrivals. The incident underscores the complex interplay between international border control, humanitarian concerns, and the operational challenges faced by commercial aviation in managing sensitive passenger situations.