By Staff Report
ISLAMABAD:Pakistan was actively engaged with international partners to ensure the safety and repatriation of its citizens detained by Israel in the Gaza aid flotilla interception.,the Foreign Office confirmed on Sunday.
“Through the diplomatic channels of a friendly European country, we have confirmed that former senator Mushtaq Ahmad is in the custody of the Israeli occupying forces and is safe and in good health,” read the press release issued by the FO.
It further added that Pakistan authorities have been advised that the ex-senator will be presented before a court and upon the issuance of deportation orders, his repatriation will be facilitated on a fast-track basis.
The ministry’s remarks come after the former lawmaker was detained by Israeli forces while taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla, whose multiple vessels were carrying aid to the war-torn territory currently under Israeli blockade.
The ex-senator, who was leading a five-member Pakistani delegation, joined the flotilla alongside international activists and humanitarian aid groups.
However, the Israeli military intercepted more than 40 flotilla vessels, some 42.5 nautical miles (79 km) from Gaza and detained more than 450 activists aboard the vessels.
Tel Aviv has since faced widespread criticism from countries around the world.
