Gaza: Israeli forces have released former senator Mushtaq Ahmed, who was part of the Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.
Confirming the release on social media platform X, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated, “I am pleased to announce that former Senator Mushtaq Ahmed has been released.”
He added that Mushtaq Ahmed is currently safe and in good health at the Pakistani embassy in Oman, and the embassy is fully prepared to assist him with his return to Pakistan according to his wishes.
Ishaq Dar also expressed gratitude to all friendly countries that played an active role in this matter and cooperated with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Sumud Flotilla was a humanitarian mission aiming to deliver aid to the besieged population of Gaza. Mushtaq Ahmed was among the participants detained during the operation.
Former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad has recounted the mistreatment he endured while in Israeli custody following his detention aboard the Gaza aid flotilla intercepted last week.
In a video message released after his release, Mushtaq revealed that he was held at Ketziot Prison, also known as Ansar III, a high-security facility in Israel’s Negev desert.
“I was subjected to torture. My eyes were blindfolded, and guns were pointed at us,” he said. “I went on a hunger strike, and Israeli forces denied access to air, drinking water, or medication,” he added, describing his ordeal.
Now in Jordan under the care of the Pakistani Embassy in Amman, Mushtaq said he would soon return to Pakistan and provide further details about his detention. “We will continue the struggle for the freedom of Palestine,” he stated.
Mushtaq Ahmad was among the activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which departed from Spain in September to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. The flotilla was intercepted last week, resulting in the detention of several participants.
