Release Confirmed by Pakistani Foreign Ministry
Former senator and senior Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mushtaq Ahmad Khan has been released from Israeli detention and has safely reached Amman, Jordan, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office. Officials confirmed that Khan is currently at the Pakistani Embassy in Amman and is in good health and high spirits.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Khan’s release followed sustained diplomatic efforts. He added that the Pakistani government maintained continuous contact with Israeli authorities through a European intermediary country to secure the politician’s freedom.
Detention During the “Global Sumud Flotilla”
Mushtaq Ahmad Khan was among the participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civil society initiative that sought to deliver humanitarian aid to besieged Gaza. The flotilla, carrying activists and aid workers from several countries, was intercepted by Israeli naval forces before reaching its destination — an incident that came alongside Israel’s deportation of 29 more flotilla activists amid rising regional tensions. Israeli authorities detained several participants, including Khan, on grounds of violating naval restrictions imposed on Gaza since 2007.
The Global Sumud Flotilla (meaning “steadfastness” in Arabic) is part of an ongoing international campaign aimed at drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The territory has been under a strict Israeli blockade for nearly two decades, with restrictions on movement, goods, and medical supplies. Humanitarian groups frequently attempt to send aid via sea routes, though most flotillas are stopped by Israeli forces.
Pakistan Expresses Gratitude to Allied Nations
Foreign Minister Dar expressed appreciation to the countries that assisted in Khan’s release. “Pakistan remained in close coordination with friendly nations throughout this process,” he said, adding that diplomatic channels worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and quick return of all detained Pakistani citizens.
The foreign minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian cause, calling for the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza. He emphasized that Islamabad continues to advocate for a peaceful and just resolution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict under international law and United Nations resolutions.
Reaction in Pakistan
News of Khan’s detention earlier this week sparked strong reactions across Pakistan. Political parties, civil society organizations, and human rights groups condemned Israel’s actions and demanded his immediate release. Rallies and statements were issued in major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar, urging the government to take urgent diplomatic steps.
Jamaat-e-Islami, Khan’s party, described his detention as an attempt to silence voices of solidarity with Palestinians. The party also thanked the government for acting swiftly to secure his release. Social media in Pakistan saw widespread campaigns under hashtags calling for “#FreeMushtaqAhmedKhan” and “#StandWithGaza.”
Background: Gaza Blockade and Humanitarian Crisis
The incident has once again drawn attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where more than 2 million residents live under severe restrictions. According to the United Nations, nearly 80% of Gaza’s population depends on humanitarian aid, and shortages of water, fuel, and medical supplies have reached critical levels.
Since 2007, Israel has maintained a land, sea, and air blockade on Gaza, citing security concerns linked to Hamas. International observers, however, have repeatedly described the blockade as collective punishment of civilians, in violation of international humanitarian law.
Khan’s Return to Pakistan Expected Soon
Officials in Islamabad confirmed that arrangements are being made for Mushtaq Ahmad Khan’s return to Pakistan. The Foreign Office stated that the embassy in Amman is providing full assistance and that his travel plans will be finalized once all formalities are completed.
“Senator Khan is safe, in good health, and grateful for the support extended by the Pakistani nation,” the statement concluded.
His release marks a significant diplomatic achievement for Pakistan, highlighting the challenges faced by international activists involved in humanitarian missions to Gaza and the ongoing global concern over conditions in the blockaded territory.
