ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned Israel’s assault on the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, describing it as “barbarity” against humanitarian workers.
In a statement on X, Sharif said Pakistan “strongly condemns the dastardly attack by Israeli forces on the 40-vessel Sumud Gaza flotilla, carrying over 450 humanitarian workers from 44 countries.”
“We hope and pray for the safety of all those who have been illegally apprehended by Israeli forces and call for their immediate release. Their crime was to carry aid for the hapless Palestinian people. This barbarity must end. Peace must be given a chance, and humanitarian aid must reach those in need.” Sharif said.
FM Dar: ‘Flagrant Violation of International Law’
Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar echoed the prime minister’s remarks, calling Israel’s actions a “flagrant violation of international law.”
“We demand an immediate ceasefire, lifting of the blockade, swift release of activists, and unhindered aid to Gaza,” Dar said, and added that Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their quest for an independent, sovereign State based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
Background: Flotilla Under Attack
Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla late Wednesday, detaining dozens of activists and seizing several vessels as the convoy approached Gaza.
Organizers said the flotilla — the largest in years — carried humanitarian supplies, medical aid, and campaigners from over 45 countries. Activists reported signal jamming, communication blackouts, and violent boarding by armed personnel.
Flotilla leaders accused Israeli forces of ramming vessels, deploying water cannons, and “brutally mistreating peaceful detainees from 50 countries.” Around 70 activists were confirmed detained, with Israeli authorities moving them to the southern port of Ashdod.
Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis
The raid comes as Gaza reels from one of the most devastating wars in decades. Nearly two years into Israel’s ground and air offensive, more than 66,100 Palestinians — mostly women and children — have been killed since October 2023.
Tens of thousands more are wounded, hospitals lie in ruins, and famine is spreading under Israel’s tightened blockade. The UN has warned repeatedly that Gaza is becoming uninhabitable, with disease and mass displacement worsening the catastrophe.
