ISLAMABAD, Oct 7, 2025 – Pakistan’s government confirmed the release of former Jamaat-i-Islami senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan from Israeli custody, announcing that he is now safely under the care of the Pakistani Embassy in Amman, Jordan, following his detention during a humanitarian mission to Gaza.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar shared the update on social media, stating: “I am pleased to confirm that former Senator Mushtaq has been released and is now safely with Pakistan Embassy in Amman. He is in good health and high spirits. The Embassy stands ready to facilitate his return to Pakistan, in accordance with his wishes and convenience.”
Dar extended gratitude to friendly nations for their assistance in the matter, noting their active engagement with Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Khan, who led a five-member Pakistani delegation aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, was arrested by Israeli naval forces on October 2 as the vessel attempted to breach the blockade and deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The flotilla, organized by international activists, aimed to highlight restrictions on aid access since the escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict in late 2023.
Initially, Khan refused to sign expedited release documents from Israeli authorities, insisting on the full evacuation of his delegation first. Pakistan’s Foreign Office had been coordinating diplomatic efforts, including outreach to allies like Jordan, to secure his freedom, with hopes of evacuation within days expressed as recently as Monday.
The release comes amid heightened international scrutiny of Gaza access, with similar flotilla attempts previously sparking global protests. Khan, a vocal advocate for Palestinian causes, appeared before an Israeli court shortly after his arrest.
In a first video message post-release, Khan reiterated his commitment to the cause, underscoring the mission’s role in challenging the blockade. Pakistani officials confirmed that the rest of the delegation had been freed earlier, leaving Khan as the last detainee.
The development aligns with Pakistan’s longstanding support for Palestinian rights at forums like the United Nations, reflecting ongoing diplomatic activism under the current coalition government.