The South African humanitarian organization Gift of the Givers has stated that Israel deliberately failed to stamp the passports of Palestinian refugees from Gaza, creating significant entry complications upon their arrival at OR Tambo International Airport. A group of 153 travelers experienced a 12-hour delay on their aircraft because their documents lacked these exit stamps, and they could not initially provide specific accommodation or duration of stay details.
Following intervention from the aid group, which guaranteed housing for the refugees, the South African government waived the standard entry requirements. A Border Management Authority representative confirmed that Palestinians are permitted visa-free visits for up to 90 days, and the travelers were subsequently admitted under those terms. This incident marks the second such flight in two weeks, with the organization criticizing the additional hardship imposed on people fleeing a conflict zone.
Following intervention from the aid group, which guaranteed housing for the refugees, the South African government waived the standard entry requirements. A Border Management Authority representative confirmed that Palestinians are permitted visa-free visits for up to 90 days, and the travelers were subsequently admitted under those terms. This incident marks the second such flight in two weeks, with the organization criticizing the additional hardship imposed on people fleeing a conflict zone.
