Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad released from Israeli detention, confirms Deputy PM Dar

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar announced that former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmad has been released from Israeli custody and is currently under the care of the Pakistan Embassy in Amman, Jordan.

Ahmad had been detained earlier this month during the Israeli interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla — a humanitarian convoy aiming to deliver aid to Gaza. The flotilla was stopped by Israeli forces in international waters, approximately 42.5 nautical miles (79 kilometers) from the Gaza coast. Over 450 activists aboard more than 40 vessels were taken into custody.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Deputy PM Dar confirmed the ex-senator’s release, stating, “I am pleased to confirm that former Senator Mushtaq has been released and is now safely with the Pakistan Embassy in Amman. He is in good health and high spirits. The Embassy stands ready to facilitate his return to Pakistan, in accordance with his wishes and convenience.”

I am pleased to confirm that former Senator Mushtaq has been released and is now safely with Pakistan Embassy in Amman. He is in good health and high spirits. The Embassy stands ready to facilitate his return to Pakistan, in accordance with his wishes and convenience.

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Am pleased… pic.twitter.com/IbZQKvzWyb

— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) October 7, 2025

Dar also expressed appreciation for international efforts that contributed to the release,“I am pleased to extend our gratitude to all our friendly countries who actively engaged and assisted in this behalf,” he added.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which departed from Spain, included political figures and human rights activists from various countries. Its mission was to challenge the longstanding blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis, including the threat of famine.

Israel’s interception of the flotilla has drawn widespread condemnation from governments and human rights organizations across the globe.