Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad released from Israeli detention, confirms DPM Dar

Islamabad (Web Desk): Former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who had been taken into custody by Israeli forces during the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, has been freed and is now safely under the care of Pakistan’s Embassy in Amman.

The confirmation came on Tuesday from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Mushtaq Ahmad was among several individuals detained earlier this month when Israeli troops stopped the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was transporting humanitarian supplies to Gaza.

In a statement posted on X, Ishaq Dar said he was pleased to confirm the former senator’s release, noting that Ahmad was in good health and high spirits.

He added that the embassy in Amman was fully prepared to assist in arranging his return to Pakistan whenever he wished.

The deputy prime minister expressed appreciation to the friendly nations that extended their cooperation to secure Ahmad’s release, saying Pakistan is thankful for their active engagement in the matter.

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.
Am pleased… pic.twitter.com/IbZQKvzWyb

— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) October 7, 2025

The flotilla, consisting of 45 vessels and carrying activists along with political representatives, had departed from Spain last month with the objective of challenging Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations (UN) has warned of a potential famine.

Mushtaq Ahmad Khan had joined the mission as part of the humanitarian initiative.

However, Israeli forces intercepted more than 40 of those ships approximately 42.5 nautical miles—about 79 kilometers—from the Gaza coast and detained more than 450 people onboard.

The incident has since provoked widespread condemnation from various countries and international organizations critical of Tel Aviv’s actions.