ISLAMABAD: Pakistani religio-political party Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on Thursday called on the government to ensure the safe and swift return of its former senator, Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who was detained by Israeli naval forces during the interception of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla.

Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, JI President Hafiz Naeemur Rehman described the flotilla as a “noble humanitarian mission,” noting that politicians, actors, and human rights activists were among those on board.

“This is Israel’s terrorism,” JI Information Secretary Shakeel Turabi told Pakistan TV Digital, quoting Rehman as saying, while expressing hope for the “safe and healthy return” of the detained activists.

Rehman further urged the Pakistani government “not to take any decision in haste” and instead push for a “one-state solution, not two,” in line with the vision of the country’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The 45-vessel flotilla, carrying more than 450 international activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, departed Spain last month in a bid to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the UN has warned of famine.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office noted that it is coordinating with allied nations to secure the release of its citizens. Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan condemned the interception as “a grave violation of international law” and underscored that “the safety and well-being of Pakistani citizens aboard the flotilla are of paramount importance.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also denounced the “dastardly attack” and praised Pakistanis for joining the humanitarian mission. “Their crime was to carry aid for the hapless Palestinian people,” he said. “Peace must be given a chance, and humanitarian aid must reach those in need. This barbarity must end.”

Israeli forces detained hundreds of activists and transferred them to Ashdod port for deportation proceedings, sparking global outrage. Turkey, Spain, Colombia, and South Africa joined Pakistan in demanding the activists’ immediate release, while Amnesty International condemned the interception as “an act of intimidation.”

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Pakistani religio-political party urges safe return of ex-senator detained on Gaza flotilla