Former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, who was detained by Israeli forces while carrying food and humanitarian aid to Gaza, has been released and is currently at the Pakistani Embassy in Amman, Jordan.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the news, stating that Mushtaq Ahmed is in good health and high spirits. Dar emphasized that the embassy will provide all necessary support for the senator’s return to Pakistan and expressed gratitude to “friendly countries” that assisted in securing his release.
Mushtaq Ahmed was apprehended by Israeli authorities during his humanitarian mission to deliver food and relief supplies to Palestinians in Gaza, which has been under blockade amidst recent hostilities.
After spending five to six days in custody, he was released and shared a video statement detailing his experience and the conditions faced during detention.
In his statement, Mushtaq Ahmed described the ordeal as “the worst torture,” revealing that detainees were held in harsh prison conditions where even basic necessities like clean drinking water were unavailable. He noted that he and 150 colleagues were imprisoned for their efforts to provide aid but reaffirmed that their determination remains unshaken.
Despite the hardships, Mushtaq Ahmed reiterated his commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating, “Our struggle will continue until the liberation of Gaza.” He also indicated plans to return to Pakistan soon and provide further details regarding his experience in Israeli custody.
In response, Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing support for humanitarian efforts in Gaza and expressed relief over the senator’s safe release. He reassured that the Pakistani embassy in Jordan would facilitate all arrangements for Mushtaq Ahmed’s return and extended thanks to the nations that intervened diplomatically to help secure his freedom.
The release marks a significant relief for Pakistani authorities and underscores the continued risks faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones like Gaza.
