Ahmad, who led Pakistan’s delegation on the flotilla, has safely reached the Pakistan Embassy in Amman, Jordan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed on Tuesday. Dar said Ahmad was “in good health and high spirits” and will return to Pakistan on October 9.
“Senator Mushtaq’s courage and steadfastness for the Palestinian cause are commendable,” Dar said, thanking friendly nations for assisting his release.
Ahmad, in a video message after his release, said he and other activists had endured harsh treatment during detention but vowed to continue efforts for Gaza.
“We have been freed, but our fight for Palestinian freedom will continue. We will go again and again,” he said.
Greta Thunberg speaks out after release
In Athens, Greta Thunberg addressed reporters after being deported along with dozens of European activists. She described the Global Sumud Flotilla as “the largest ever civilian effort to break Israel’s illegal and inhumane siege by sea.”
“It was a story of global solidarity — of people stepping up when governments failed to do so,” Thunberg said. “Our so-called leaders continue to fuel genocide, death, and destruction. They do not represent us. That this mission has to exist is a shame.”
The Swedish activist also alleged mistreatment during detention but said that was “not the story.”
“The real story is the people of Gaza — still suffering, still starving, still under siege,” she added.
Hundreds of activists released worldwide
Israel has now deported most of the nearly 500 activists detained after its navy intercepted the flotilla last week in international waters. Participants from more than 50 countries were on board the 42 boats that departed from Spain in September.
Repatriations have been coordinated through Greece, Spain, Slovakia, Jordan, and other partner states, as governments arranged special flights for their citizens. Spain’s foreign minister said all but one Spanish participant had returned home.
The Global Sumud Flotilla — composed of humanitarian workers, politicians, and peace activists — sought to deliver medical supplies and symbolic relief to Gaza. Israel defended the blockade as legal under international law and called the flotilla a “publicity stunt.”
Global concern over Gaza blockade
The interception sparked widespread condemnation. Pakistan, Spain, and several European nations urged Israel to release all detainees and allow humanitarian access to Gaza, where UN agencies warn of worsening famine and disease.
The United Nations has repeatedly called for lifting the blockade, noting Israel’s obligation under international law to allow sufficient food and medical supplies into Gaza.