Former Senator Mushtaq Released from Israeli Detention; Ishaq Dar Confirms

Islamabad / Amman: Former Senator **Mushtaq Ahmad Khan** has been released from Israeli detention and is now in Jordan, Pakistani authorities confirmed. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister **Ishaq Dar** officially announced the release and said Islamabad is making arrangements to bring him home soon.

Mushtaq — who was arrested by Israeli forces while aboard the humanitarian naval convoy known as the *Global Samood Flotilla* headed for Gaza — said in a video message from Jordan that detainees were subjected to severe mistreatment. He alleged that Israeli forces “set dogs on us,” subjected prisoners to brutal physical violence, and used electric shock devices on their feet.

According to Mushtaq, he was held for **five to six days** before being freed along with about **150 fellow detainees**. He told supporters he remains committed to the cause of Palestine and vowed to continue his activism until “the end of Israel and the liberation of Al-Aqsa Mosque.”

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described Mushtaq’s release as the result of sustained and effective **diplomatic efforts by Pakistan**, and said relevant departments are coordinating the former senator’s swift return to Pakistan. Diplomatic sources confirmed arrangements are underway to repatriate him as soon as possible.

The detention and subsequent allegations of abuse have renewed public attention on the risks faced by activists taking part in aid missions to Gaza. Pakistani officials have not yet provided further details about consular access, medical checks, or any investigations into claims of mistreatment.

Mushtaq’s release was welcomed by supporters and civil society figures in Pakistan, many of whom have been calling for urgent diplomatic intervention since his arrest during the flotilla operation.