PM Shehbaz Vows to Secure Safe Return of Ex-Senator Detained by Israel 

KARACHI: Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla and detained the humanitarian aid workers who were trying to reach Gaza to supply humanitarian aid. The Prime Minister of Pakistan assured the safe return of the detainees, including the ex-senator of Pakistan, Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. 

Assurance to Jamaat-i-Islami:

On Friday, the Prime Minister of Pakistan had a telephonic conversation with Jamaat-i-Islami chief, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman. Shehbaz Sharif assured to make every possible attempt to bring back Pakistani nationals detained by Israeli forces, including former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. 

These citizens were taken into custody when Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was sailing to support the people of Gaza.

The Prime Minister also informed that he had given the responsibility of the safe return of the citizens to the Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. He will be working closely with friendly nations and international organisations to secure the release of Pakistanis and ensure their safe return.

Support for the Palestinian cause:

The PM office issued a statement that clearly projects the Middle East tensions. The PM emphasised that Pakistan strongly condemns the ongoing violence in Gaza and supports an immediate ceasefire to protect innocent lives.

The statement said, “Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, emphasising that Pakistan’s stance is clear and resolute. He reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing position advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital.”

This position reflects Pakistan’s decades-old policy of standing firmly with the people of Palestine and opposing any actions that undermine their right to self-determination.

JI’s reservations on the Gaza peace plan:

The JI chief raised his concerns regarding the future of Gaza. He posted on X that he is, and his party has serious concerns regarding the international proposal for Gaza, and that he had talked about them with Shehbaz Sharif. 

The JI chief tweeted, “I also expressed, on behalf of Jamaat-i-Islami as well as the entire nation, serious reservations regarding Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan, and stressed that Pakistan must remain firm on the demand for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Pakis­tan should not support any plan that ultimately strengthens Israel.”

His statement reflects the concerns of many in Pakistan who fear that certain international peace proposals may further weaken Palestine’s position rather than secure justice for its people.

A shared national stance:

The conversation between the Prime Minister and the JI leader shows a rare moment of unity across political lines. Despite differences on domestic issues, both leaders highlighted the importance of speaking with one voice when it comes to Palestine.

For Pakistan, the Palestinian cause is not just a diplomatic matter, although it is a moral obligation. Generations of Pakistanis have shown solidarity with Palestinians, whether through humanitarian support or by raising their voices at international forums.