ISLAMABAD: Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad of Jamaat-e-Islami received a hero’s welcome at Islamabad International Airport on Thursday following his release from Israeli custody after being detained during the interception of the Gaza aid flotilla last week.
Crowds of citizens carrying Pakistani and Palestinian flags gathered at the airport to greet him, showering rose petals and chanting slogans in solidarity with the people of Palestine.
Speaking to the media upon arrival, Ahmad said that it has been more than two years since the large-scale killings of Muslims began in Gaza. He added that thousands of children have been left orphaned and disabled as a result of continuous Israeli attacks.
Recounting his experience, Ahmad said he and other activists spent thirty days and nights at sea aboard the Samad Flotilla, which came under three separate drone attacks during the voyage.
He urged Muslim countries to unite and deliberate on the worsening situation in Palestine, describing the ongoing genocide as the height of brutality.
Ahmad’s return came hours after the Pakistani Embassy in Jordan confirmed on X that he had departed for Pakistan, stating, “Alhamdulillah, Senator Mushtaq Ahmad has safely departed for Pakistan.”
The embassy added that, following the instructions of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, all necessary arrangements were made in Amman for Ahmad’s safe and smooth departure.
Ahmad was released from Israel’s custody and handed over to the Pakistan Embassy in Amman on Tuesday. His release was officially confirmed by Ishaq Dar
