Efforts underway to bring back former senator Mushtaq Ahmad from Israel: FO

ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to secure the release and safe repatriation of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who is currently in Israeli custody following his participation in the Samud flotilla, the Foreign Office (FO) confirmed on Monday.

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In a series of official statements, the FO spokesperson said that efforts are underway through the Pakistani Embassy in Oman and in coordination with international partners. With the cooperation of the Jordanian government, authorities hope the process will be successfully concluded in the coming days.

“We are sincerely grateful to the Jordanian government for its exemplary cooperation and support,” the spokesperson added.

The Foreign Ministry has also assured that Senator Mushtaq Ahmad is “safe and sound” while in custody and is expected to be produced before a local court in accordance with Israeli legal procedures. Once a deportation order is issued, the process of repatriation will begin immediately, officials added.

Yesterday, the FO also issued a broader statement on the plight of Pakistani nationals detained by Israeli forces during the Samud flotilla mission. It labeled the detentions as “illegal”, adding that Pakistan is working for the “safe and immediate return” of all its citizens involved.

The ministry revealed that critical information regarding detained Pakistani nationals, including Senator Ahmad, was obtained through diplomatic sources in a friendly European country.

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The Government of Pakistan has already ensured the safe return of several citizens and expressed gratitude to the “brotherly countries” that extended assistance in those efforts. The Foreign Office also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the protection and welfare of its citizens abroad.