ISLAMABAD/AMMAN (News Desk): Former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad — who joined the Global Sumud flotilla trying to bring aid to Gaza — has been released from Israeli custody and is now with the Pakistani embassy in Amman, officials said on Tuesday.
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.
Am pleased… pic.twitter.com/IbZQKvzWyb— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) October 7, 2025
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar posted on X that Mushtaq is “safe, in good health and high spirits,” and that the embassy is ready to help him return home at his convenience.
Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla and took a number of activists into custody.
He will continue to protest adiala jail to zionist jails. They are both the samepic.twitter.com/uupBajVBu0
— Ali (@MerruX) October 7, 2025
On Tuesday Israel deported 131 activists, including Mushtaq, sending them across the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge into Jordan in a coordinated handover. Jordan’s state news agency and international outlets reported that the deportees were moved to Jordan to ensure their safe exit from Israeli custody.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office — working through its embassy in Amman — and Jordanian authorities played a key role in arranging the transfer and ensuring the former senator’s welfare. Islamabad thanked the Jordanian government and other friendly countries that “actively engaged and assisted” in the effort, according to official statements.
The Foreign Office had earlier said it was working around the clock to secure Mushtaq’s safe evacuation.
Released activists, including some who were later deported to Greece and Jordan, have alleged harsh treatment while detained. Mushtaq himself later described mistreatment during detention and vowed that the struggle for Palestine would continue, saying the campaign for Gaza’s freedom will go on “from jails to the streets.”
The deportation and release show how diplomacy and quick co-ordination between states can bring people home when they are in harm’s way. Mushtaq is expected to discuss his next steps with embassy officials before making travel plans back to Pakistan.
About the Author
