Mushtaq Ahmad Welcomed as a Hero After Release from Israeli Custody
Former Senator Returns to Pakistan Following Detention by Israeli Forces
Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who was detained by Israeli forces during the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, received a warm and heartfelt welcome upon his return to Islamabad on Thursday afternoon. The arrival of the Jamaat-e-Islami leader was met with a massive show of support, as citizens gathered at Islamabad International Airport, waving Pakistani and Palestinian flags, showering him with rose petals, and chanting pro-Palestine slogans.
Ahmad, who had been detained by Israeli authorities for his role in the humanitarian mission to Gaza, was visibly moved by the outpouring of support from the crowd. Speaking to the media, Ahmad recalled the harrowing experiences he endured during his detention and highlighted the dire situation in Palestine, particularly Gaza, where ongoing violence has left thousands of children orphaned and disabled.
A Harrowing Journey: Ahmad’s Testimony
In his address, Ahmad stressed that it had been more than two years since the outbreak of mass killings of Muslims in Palestine, a situation he described as “genocidal” and “brutal.” He reflected on the experiences during his time at sea, aboard the Samad Flotilla, which was intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver much-needed aid to Gaza.
Ahmad detailed how the flotilla came under attack by Israeli drones on three separate occasions during the journey. Despite the violence and intimidation, Ahmad and other activists aboard the ship spent 30 days and nights on the high seas, determined to fulfill their mission to assist the people of Gaza.
“Muslim nations must unite to deliberate on the ongoing situation in Palestine. What is happening there is the height of brutality,” Ahmad said, calling for stronger action from the international community to address the crisis.
Diplomatic Efforts Ensure Ahmad’s Safe Return
Ahmad’s release from Israeli detention was facilitated by significant diplomatic efforts. After being detained by Israeli forces, Ahmad was eventually deported to Jordan on Tuesday, where the Pakistani Embassy in Amman ensured all arrangements were made for his safe passage back to Pakistan. The Embassy confirmed Ahmad’s safe departure on social media, stating that “Senator Mushtaq Ahmad has safely departed for Pakistan.”
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed Ahmad’s release, describing the efforts to secure his freedom as a diplomatic success. Ahmad arrived in Islamabad from Jordan via Bahrain, hours after the Pakistani Embassy’s announcement of his release.
A Painful Experience Behind Bars
In a video message following his release, Ahmad recounted his experience while imprisoned at Ketziot Prison, a high-security facility in Israel’s Negev desert. The former senator described being subjected to physical and psychological torture, including blindfolding, threats with firearms, and extended periods of solitary confinement. Ahmad revealed that he went on a hunger strike in protest of his treatment, during which he was denied access to air, drinking water, or medication.
“I was subjected to torture. My eyes were blindfolded, and guns were pointed at us,” Ahmad recalled, emphasizing the severity of his experience during the days of his detention.
Global Sumud Flotilla: A Humanitarian Mission
Ahmad was among the many individuals detained when Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla earlier this month. The flotilla, which consisted of 45 ships carrying aid and activists, had set sail from Spain in an attempt to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza. The mission aimed to provide essential humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of an impending famine.
The flotilla’s mission highlighted the growing international concern over the dire situation in Gaza, and Ahmad’s involvement in the operation further underscored his commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights on the global stage.
A Heroic Homecoming
Mushtaq Ahmad’s return to Pakistan marks the end of a difficult and challenging chapter in his life. However, his resolve to continue advocating for Palestine remains unshaken. As Ahmad re-enters Pakistan’s political landscape, his return serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the Palestinian people and the importance of international solidarity in the fight for their rights.
