- The former senator recounts torture and hunger strike in Israeli custody.
- FO expresses its gratitude to Jordan for its “exemplary” cooperation.
- Dar praises the former senator’s bravery and commitment to the Palestinian cause.
Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who was detained by Israeli forces in the interception of the Gaza aid flotilla last week, had left for Pakistan from Jordan.
“Alhamdulillah, Senator Mushtaq Ahmad has left safely for Pakistan,” says the Pakistani Embassy in Jordan in a post on X.
“In accordance with the instructions of the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan, the Embassy of Pakistan in Amman ensured that all necessary arrangements were made for his safe and smooth departure,” he added.
The former senator was released from Israeli custody and deported to the Pakistani embassy in Amman, Jordan, on Tuesday. His release was confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
“I am pleased to confirm that former Senator Mushtaq has been released and is now safe at the Pakistani Embassy in Amman. He is in good health and in good spirits. The Embassy is willing to facilitate his return to Pakistan, in accordance with his wishes and convenience,” the DMP posted on X.
In a video message released after his release, Ahmad said he was imprisoned in Ketziot Prison, also known as Ansar III, a high-security facility in Israel’s Negev Desert.
“They tortured me. They blindfolded me and pointed guns at us,” he said. “I went on a hunger strike and the Israeli forces did not have access to air, drinking water or medicine,” the former senator had said when recounting his experience.
Ahmad was one of several people detained earlier this month after Israeli forces intercepted the Sumud Global Flotilla, which was transporting humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The flotilla of 45 ships, carrying activists and political figures, left Spain last month with the aim of breaking Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of imminent famine.
