ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Friday strongly condemned Israel for intercepting the Global Sumud Flotilla and raised serious concerns about the safety of those on board, the Foreign Office said in a statement.

The FO spokesperson called the flotilla an important humanitarian mission and a symbol of global solidarity, stressing that Israel is violating international law by stopping it. The spokesperson also highlighted that Pakistan, along with 15 other countries, had earlier issued a joint statement on September 16, urging protection for the flotilla. “The safety of Pakistanis remains the government’s top priority,” the spokesperson said.

The FO clarified that Pakistan does not recognize Israel and is actively engaging with international partners to secure the release of Pakistani citizens. “Pakistan is committed to ensuring the early and safe return of its nationals,” the spokesperson added.

Reaffirming solidarity with Palestinians, the FO said Pakistan fully supports their right to self-determination and the creation of an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

The statement came after Israeli forces detained former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan along with dozens of activists when they intercepted the aid flotilla heading for Gaza. The Pak-Palestine Forum confirmed the arrest on X, noting that Senator Khan was leading the Pakistani delegation.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Spain last month, included around 45 vessels carrying humanitarian aid, politicians, and international activists, among them Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The mission aimed to challenge Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza, where the UN has warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis and looming famine.

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