Ishaq Dar announced on Thursday that Pakistani humanitarian worker Saad Edhi has been safely released after being detained by Israeli forces while aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Read More: Saad Edhi detained during Gaza aid flotilla mission
In a statement shared on X, Dar confirmed that Saad Edhi and other humanitarian workers had arrived safely in Istanbul following diplomatic efforts involving multiple authorities. He thanked the government of Türkiye for assisting in securing their safe return.
It gives me a great pleasure to announce that as a result of our concerted efforts, Mr. Saad Edhi, who was aboard Global Sumud Flotilla, has been released after being illegally detained by Israeli occupation forces. He along with other detained humanitarian workers have safely…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 21, 2026
The deputy prime minister strongly criticised the detention of humanitarian workers by Israeli forces, describing the treatment of the activists as deeply condemnable and unacceptable. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the Palestinian people and humanitarian efforts aimed at assisting civilians in Gaza Strip.
Saad Edhi was among the activists travelling aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza before being intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters. The incident drew criticism from several countries and rights groups concerned about the treatment of activists and aid workers.
The flotilla was part of ongoing international efforts to challenge restrictions on humanitarian access to Gaza following months of conflict and humanitarian hardship in the territory. Israeli authorities later deported the detained activists after questioning and temporary custody.
Pakistan has repeatedly called for an immediate end to violence in Gaza and has voiced support for international humanitarian initiatives aimed at helping Palestinian civilians affected by the conflict.
Read More: Israeli forces detain Pakistani activist aboard Gaza aid flotilla near
The release of Saad Edhi was welcomed by humanitarian organisations and supporters in Pakistan, who praised diplomatic efforts that helped secure the safe return of the detained aid workers from Israeli custody.