Islamabad β Pakistanβs former senator and activist Mushtaq Ahmed has been detained by Israeli forces after the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The flotilla was a humanitarian mission aiming to reach Gaza with aid and international volunteers.
Reports suggest Mushtaq Ahmed was leading Pakistanβs delegation on the flotilla, which included participants from 44 countries. However, the government has not yet confirmed these reports or issued an official statement.
The PakβPalestine Forum announced the arrest on social media. In its statement, the group called on the public to demand the immediate release of Mushtaq Ahmed and other activists. βFormer Senator Mushtaq Ahmed has been taken into custody by Israeli occupying forces. This is the time to raise your voice for his release,β the Forum said.
Mushtaq Ahmed is widely known for his human rights work and pro-Palestine activism. Over the years, he has participated in numerous protests supporting the Palestinian cause, making him a prominent figure in Pakistanβs civil society.
The Global Sumud Flotilla was launched to deliver aid and demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians living under blockade in Gaza. According to reports, most of the ships in the flotilla were stopped, but one vessel managed to retreat safely. Pakistani delegate Syed Uzair Nizami, who was on the observer boat, confirmed that Mushtaq Ahmedβs ship was among those captured.
So far, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan has not commented on the detention. Officials have also not clarified whether diplomatic efforts are being made for Mushtaq Ahmedβs release.
Meanwhile, social media has been flooded with appeals demanding action from the government. Supporters both in Pakistan and abroad are urging authorities to secure the freedom of Mushtaq Ahmed and other international volunteers detained in the mission.
In other news read more about Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Heads to Gaza After ICT Officerβs Remark: βLeave Islamabad & Go to Gazaβ