Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Mushtaq Ahmad’s safe return expected within next few days: FO

The Foreign Office has expressed optimism that the safe evacuation of former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad will be “successfully completed within the next few days.”

According to the FO, efforts are underway with the help of the Jordanian government to ensure his safe return.

“We are deeply grateful to the brotherly government of Jordan for its exemplary cooperation and generous support,” the FO added.

In a statement shared on X, the Foreign Office confirmed through diplomatic sources in a friendly European country that former Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan is safe and currently in the custody of Israeli occupying forces.

Mushtaq Ahmad Khan was detained by Israeli forces on October 2 while aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which he was leading as part of a five-member Pakistani delegation.

The statement further mentioned that “in accordance with local procedures, Ahmad will be presented before a court. Upon the issuance of deportation orders, his repatriation will be facilitated on a fast-track basis.”

The ministry said it had already taken measures for the safe return of individuals who had been separated from the flotilla earlier.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, a senior JI leader, shared on X that he had spoken with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and urged him to “accelerate efforts” for Mushtaq Ahmad Khan’s release.


The prime minister reportedly assured him that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had been tasked with overseeing the matter.

Following the Israeli attack on aid ships heading to Gaza on October 4, thousands of people across Karachi and other cities of Sindh staged demonstrations to condemn the assault.

On Hafiz Naeemur Rehman’s call, a nationwide protest was observed on Friday against the Israeli attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla, with rallies taking place in major towns across the province.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying medical and food supplies for Gaza, comprised over 40 civilian boats with around 500 parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists.

Videos shared on Telegram showed passengers displaying their passports and claiming they were taken to Israel against their will, emphasizing that their mission was purely humanitarian and non-violent.

The flotilla has become a major symbol of resistance to Israel’s blockade of Gaza, drawing global attention as countries like Turkey, Spain, and Italy monitored its journey across the Mediterranean, ready to assist their citizens if needed, despite repeated Israeli warnings to turn back.