Pakistan Condemns Israel’s Interception of Gaza-Bound Global Sumud Flotilla

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday strongly condemned Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters.

The Foreign Office also denounced the detention and reported mistreatment of humanitarian workers onboard the Gaza-bound convoy.

FO Raises Concern Over Saad Edhi’s Detention

The Foreign Office said the detainees reportedly included humanitarian activist Saad Edhi. He is the son of renowned social worker Faisal Edhi and grandson of late philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi.

Pakistan demanded the immediate release of all detained activists. Moreover, the FO urged the international community to protect the safety and dignity of humanitarian workers.

The statement added that Pakistani diplomatic missions remain in close contact with regional authorities to ensure the safe return of Pakistani nationals.

Pakistan Joins International Condemnation

Earlier this week, Pakistan joined nine countries in condemning Israel’s interception of the flotilla.

The joint statement included Turkiye, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Libya, Maldives and Spain.

The Global Sumud Flotilla departed from Turkiye last week to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge Israel’s blockade.

Gaza Faces Severe Humanitarian Crisis

Israel has controlled Gaza’s entry points since imposing a blockade in 2007.

Since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023, the territory has suffered severe shortages of food, medicine and other essential supplies.

Last month, Israeli forces also intercepted another aid flotilla near Greece and later deported several activists to Europe.