Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan reaches Jordan, FM Dar confirms

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has confirmed the release of former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Dar said that Mushtaq Ahmad is currently present at the Pakistani Embassy in Oman following his release.

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

The embassy will extend full cooperation to facilitate his return to Pakistan, in accordance with his wishes and convenience, Dar said.

Former Senator Khan also confirmed his release, saying he has safely reached Jordan after being held in an Israeli prison for six days. In a statement, he said he was subjected to severe torture during his detention, with his hands cuffed and feet chained throughout his confinement. He added that he went on a three-day hunger strike to protest against the treatment of detainees and the denial of access to drinking water and medicines.

Khan stated that despite the ordeal, his resolve remains unshaken: “We will continue to break the siege of Gaza and will go again and again.” He further vowed to hold those responsible for genocide and war crimes accountable. The former senator said he would share full details of his imprisonment and his experience aboard the Sumud Flotilla—a mission aimed at challenging the blockade of Gaza—upon his return to Pakistan.

Officials have assured that all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure his safe and smooth repatriation.

Yesterday, the Foreign Office (FO) had assured that the Government of Pakistan is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to secure the release and safe repatriation of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad along with other Pakistani citizens.

The FO spokesperson had informed that efforts were underway through the Pakistani Embassy in Oman and in coordination with international partners. With the cooperation of the Jordanian government, authorities hoped the process will be successful.

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

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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.