ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has confirmed the release of former Jamaat-e-Islami senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan from Israeli custody, ending a brief but tense diplomatic standoff following his detention just days ago during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla bound for Gaza.
Senator Mushtaq was taken into custody by Israeli naval forces only a day or two ago while participating in the latest humanitarian mission to break the Gaza blockade. Following immediate negotiations, he was handed over to Jordanian authorities and is currently staying at the Pakistan Embassy in Amman. Official sources report that the senator is in good health and “high spirits.”
The Pakistani government has swiftly arranged for his return, with reports indicating he is expected to fly back to Pakistan on October 9, 2025, subject to his own convenience.
Alhamdolillah, I am pleased to share that former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who was unlawfully detained by Israeli occupying forces along with other humanitarian workers aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, has been released.
I thank the Hellenic authorities for facilitating…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 1, 2026
In a series of public remarks, including a post on X (formerly Twitter), Foreign Minister Dar described the Israeli seizure of Senator Mushtaq as “illegal” and reiterated Islamabad’s strong condemnation of the detention. He expressed gratitude to Turkey and other “friendly countries” for their crucial diplomatic and logistical support in securing the senator’s release within such a short timeframe, while also praising the Foreign Office and the Pakistani diplomatic mission in Greece for their effective coordination.
Dar strongly condemned Israel’s actions in blocking the Sumud Flotilla, framing them as a deliberate attempt to prevent humanitarian aid from reaching besieged Palestinians in Gaza. He highlighted UN warnings of possible famine-like conditions in the enclave, underscoring the urgency of the mission.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering stance, the Foreign Minister said Islamabad continues to offer unconditional political and moral support to the Palestinian people. He pledged that Pakistan would persist in backing efforts to break the Gaza blockade through diplomatic and humanitarian channels.
It may be added here that the Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising activists and dignitaries from multiple countries, was intercepted by Israeli forces in the Mediterranean Sea during the latest campaign, sparking international outcry and renewed calls for the lifting of the blockade on Gaza.
