Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that efforts are underway to secure the safe return of former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who remains detained by Israeli forces following the Gaza flotilla incident. The Foreign Office stated that the country’s embassy in Amman is working closely with the Jordanian government to ensure his early release. Officials expressed optimism that the process will reach a positive conclusion soon, while extending sincere gratitude to Jordan for its continued cooperation and diplomatic assistance.
Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, a senior member of Jamaat-e-Islami and known humanitarian activist, was part of the Global Solidarity Flotilla en route to Gaza when Israeli forces launched an assault on the vessel. The flotilla, which aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians, was intercepted and detained, sparking global outrage. While 170 activists have already been released and 70 more, including environmentalist Greta Thunberg, are expected to be freed shortly, Khan and several others remain in Israeli custody.
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The Pakistani government, along with other nations, strongly condemned what it termed a “brutal and unjustified” attack on the peaceful humanitarian mission. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s demand for the immediate release of all detained activists, emphasizing that the incident was a clear violation of international law and humanitarian principles. He expressed solidarity with all those detained, saying that the government “prays and strives for their safety, dignity, and swift return home.”
Prime Minister Sharif also personally contacted Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, assuring him that all possible measures were being taken to secure the release of Pakistani nationals held by Israel. He revealed that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had been assigned to lead diplomatic efforts in coordination with friendly countries and international organizations. The Prime Minister commended the courage and “dignified participation” of Pakistani activists in the Gaza mission, calling their actions a testament to the nation’s commitment to global humanitarian causes.
As diplomatic efforts intensify, Pakistan remains hopeful that Mushtaq Ahmad Khan will be released soon and return safely to his homeland. Officials emphasized that the government will continue to use all available diplomatic channels to ensure justice and protection for its citizens abroad. The incident has once again drawn attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting the risks faced by activists working to support the people of Palestine.