By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who was detained by Israeli forces during the interception of the Gaza aid flotilla, has been released and is now safely under the care of the Pakistan Embassy in Amman. The confirmation came from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who announced on Tuesday that the former senator is in good health and spirits. The news brought relief to his supporters and family members, who had been anxiously awaiting updates on his condition and whereabouts.
The Gaza Aid Flotilla Interception
Mushtaq Ahmad was among several individuals detained earlier this month after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission aimed at delivering aid to Gaza. The flotilla, consisting of 45 ships, departed from Spain last month carrying activists, political figures, and humanitarian workers. Its primary objective was to break Israel’s long-standing blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations has repeatedly warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe and widespread famine.
The interception drew international attention, with several countries condemning Israel’s actions and calling for the immediate release of detained activists. Many humanitarian organizations and human rights groups also demanded transparency regarding the treatment of those on board the flotilla.
Official Statement by the Government of Pakistan
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar took to the social media platform X to confirm Mushtaq Ahmad’s release. “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,” he stated. Dar further assured that the embassy would facilitate Ahmad’s return to Pakistan according to his convenience and wishes.
The deputy prime minister also expressed gratitude to friendly countries that played a role in securing Ahmad’s release. “I am pleased to extend our gratitude to all our friendly countries who actively engaged and assisted in this behalf,” Dar added, without naming specific nations.
Mushtaq Ahmad’s Account of His Detention
Following his release, Mushtaq Ahmad shared details of his ordeal while in Israeli custody. In a video message, the former senator revealed that he was detained at Ketziot Prison, also known as Ansar III, a high-security facility located in Israel’s Negev desert. Describing the harsh conditions, he stated, “I was subjected to torture. My eyes were blindfolded, guns were pointed at us.” Ahmad further mentioned that he went on a hunger strike due to the lack of basic necessities such as air, clean drinking water, and medical access.
He expressed determination to continue his advocacy for Palestinian freedom upon his return to Pakistan, emphasizing that the struggle for justice and human rights in Gaza must persist.
Global Response and Related Developments
Reports from international media also highlighted similar mistreatment of other activists aboard the flotilla, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who reportedly endured poor conditions during detention. Meanwhile, Jordan’s state news agency confirmed that 131 activists from multiple countries, including Pakistan, were deported from Israel to Jordan via the Allenby Bridge crossing.
According to Jordan’s Foreign Ministry, the activists represented nations such as Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Oman, Kuwait, Libya, Pakistan, Turkiye, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the US, among others.