Pakistan Engaged in Repatriation of Citizens Detained During Gaza Aid Flotilla Interception: FO
October 5, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) has confirmed that it is actively working through diplomatic channels to ensure the safe return of Pakistani nationals detained by Israeli authorities following the interception of a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, the FO said that former senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan was among those in Israeli custody.
“Through the diplomatic channels of a friendly European country, we have confirmed that former senator Mushtaq Ahmad is in the custody of Israeli authorities and is safe and in good health,” the statement read.
The ministry added that the former lawmaker would be presented before a court and that once deportation orders are issued, his repatriation will be facilitated promptly.
Details of the Incident
The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza and included over 40 vessels and more than 450 international activists. The group was intercepted approximately 79 kilometers from Gaza’s coastline.
Mushtaq Ahmed was leading a five-member Pakistani delegation that joined the mission alongside international peace activists and humanitarian organizations.
Following the incident, Pakistan’s Foreign Office reaffirmed that it is coordinating closely with partner countries to secure the release of all detained citizens.
“We are grateful to the friendly nations that earlier assisted in the safe return of those who disembarked before the interception,” the statement added.
“The Government of Pakistan remains fully committed to the protection and welfare of all its citizens abroad.”
The ministry expressed optimism that the repatriation process would conclude within the coming days.
Developments on the Diplomatic Front
The interception occurred amid renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Gaza, with talks scheduled in Cairo to discuss a roadmap for peace and humanitarian access.
According to international media, Palestinian representatives have reportedly responded positively to US President Donald Trump’s latest proposal on post-war administration and the release of captives.
Accounts from Released Activists
Meanwhile, 137 activists who were part of the flotilla arrived in Turkey on Saturday following their deportation. The group included nationals from several countries, such as the United States, the UAE, Malaysia, Italy, Morocco, and Tunisia, according to Turkish foreign ministry officials.
Two activists who landed in Istanbul told reporters that conditions during detention were difficult, claiming that personal belongings and medication were taken away.
Foreign ministries of several nations, including Italy, have requested assurances from Israel to ensure that remaining detainees are treated humanely and in line with international law.
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said 26 Italian nationals had already returned home, while 15 more were expected to be released soon.
“I have instructed our embassy in Tel Aviv to ensure that all detained Italian citizens are treated with dignity and in accordance with their rights,” Tajani wrote on X.
Several humanitarian groups, including Adalah, which provides legal assistance to detainees, have reported that some activists faced restrictions on communication and access to lawyers during their detention.
Pakistan’s Assurance
The FO reiterated that former senator Mushtaq Ahmed remains safe, and his early return is being arranged through diplomatic coordination.
The ministry further emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian principles and to continuing engagement with global partners for the protection of human rights and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
In summary, Pakistan is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts to ensure the safe and swift repatriation of all citizens detained during the flotilla interception, while international diplomatic discussions continue on broader regional peace efforts.
