Islamabad: In a dramatic turn of events, Israeli forces have released former Jamaat-e-Islami Senator Mushtaq Ahmed, who was part of the Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to besieged Gaza.
The release was confirmed by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who announced on social media platform “X” that, I am pleased to report that former Senator Mushtaq Ahmed has been released.
According to Dar, Ahmed is currently safe and in good health at the Pakistani embassy in Amman, Jordan, and the embassy stands ready to fully facilitate his return to Pakistan. The minister expressed gratitude toward all nations that assisted and collaborated with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in securing his release.
Mushtaq Ahmed participated in the flotilla, which sought to break Israel’s naval blockade and deliver relief supplies to Gaza. Israel’s navy intercepted the convoy at sea, detaining numerous participants. After holding them in custody, Israel ordered the deportation of Ahmed and other detainees, sending them onward to Jordan.
According to Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, all deported individuals crossed into Jordan via the Hussein Bridge under meticulously coordinated arrangements to ensure their safety. The group included citizens from a wide spectrum of nations: Pakistan, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Oman, Kuwait, Libya, Turkey, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, New Zealand, Serbia, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Uruguay.
In an official statement, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry affirmed that it is working alongside international partners to ensure the safe repatriation of all detainees. The ministry reassured the public that Mushtaq Ahmed remained “safe and healthy” while in detention, and that he would be presented before a court in due course.
Upon completion of legal proceedings, deportation authorities have been instructed to expedite his return to Pakistan. In the same statement, the ministry extended its heartfelt thanks to all countries lending support and applying diplomatic pressure in this matter.