ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FO) announced on Monday that it is engaged in intense diplomatic efforts for the safe evacuation of former Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who was detained by Israeli forces last week. The detention occurred after Israel intercepted a Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) carrying essential aid to the besieged Gaza Strip.
The FO stated that its embassy in Amman is “working tirelessly to secure the safe evacuation of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan.” Highlighting the critical role of a key ally, the statement added, “With the invaluable assistance of the Jordanian government, we are hopeful that the process can be successfully concluded within the next couple of days.”
The Interception and International Condemnation
Senator Khan led the Pakistani delegation on the 45-vessel GSF, which included activists and politicians, notably climate advocate Greta Thunberg. The flotilla set sail from Spain last month with the explicit aim of breaking Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of a deepening famine. However, as the vessels neared the coast, Israeli forces intercepted them and detained the activists on board.
Pakistan and several other nations swiftly condemned Israel’s “dastardly attack” on the humanitarian mission. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for the immediate release of all those illegally apprehended and commended the “dignified participation” of Pakistani activists in the mission.
Repatriation Process and Diplomatic Channels
The Foreign Office confirmed through the diplomatic channels of a “friendly European country” that Senator Khan is in the custody of Israeli forces, is safe and in good health.
The FO detailed the expected repatriation timeline, stating: “We have been further advised that, in accordance with local legal procedures, [former] senator Mushtaq will be presented before a court. Upon the issuance of deportation orders, his repatriation will be facilitated on a fast-track basis.”
In a telephone conversation with JI chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, Prime Minister Sharif assured that the government, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar leading the coordination with friendly countries and international organisations, was actively engaged in securing the Pakistani nationals’ return.
The focus on the diplomatic pathway through Jordan underscores the urgency of the situation. Lawyer and activist Jibran Nasir noted on social media that other activists detained in the raid were receiving a hero’s welcome upon their return, expressing hope that Senator Khan would soon follow.
The government maintains a strong demand for the “safety, dignity, and earliest possible return to the homeland” of its citizens, while expressing deep gratitude to the “brotherly” government of Jordan for its “exemplary cooperation.”
