Former Pakistani Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan Released by Israeli Forces

ISLAMABAD – Israeli forces have released former Pakistani Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, who had been detained during an aid mission to Gaza, officials confirmed on Sunday.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the development, stating that Senator Mushtaq is now safe and currently at the Pakistani Embassy in Amman, Jordan. He added that the embassy will fully assist him in returning to Pakistan, depending on his preferences and convenience.

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Senator Mushtaq, a senior leader of Jamaat-e-Islami, was part of the Global Freedom Flotilla that was headed toward Gaza when it was intercepted by Israeli forces. He, along with several others, was detained in the Israeli raid.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been actively working through its embassy in Amman, and in close coordination with international partners, to ensure the safe and swift return of the former senator.

In an earlier statement, the Foreign Office had confirmed that with the help of a friendly European country’s diplomatic channels, Pakistan had verified that Senator Mushtaq was in Israeli custody and was safe and unharmed.

It was further communicated that he would be presented before a court under local legal procedures, and upon issuance of deportation orders, Pakistan would ensure his immediate repatriation.

The Foreign Office expressed deep appreciation for the support of the Jordanian government, calling it both generous and exemplary. Officials said Jordan’s assistance played a key role in securing the release and safe transfer of the Pakistani national.

“We are deeply grateful to the brotherly government of Jordan for its valuable cooperation and generous support in this matter,” the FO spokesperson said.

Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan had joined the Global Samoud (Steadfastness) Flotilla, an international humanitarian convoy attempting to deliver aid to besieged Gaza. Israeli forces reportedly raided the convoy, detaining most of its participants, including Senator Mushtaq.

Following the incident, Pakistan had issued multiple statements calling for the immediate release of its citizens detained by Israeli forces and had also condemned the illegal interception of the humanitarian mission.

The release of Senator Mushtaq marks a significant success for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and international cooperation amid rising tensions in the region.