ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday strongly condemned what it described as the unlawful interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli forces in international waters and called for the immediate release of all detained humanitarian activists, including Pakistani aid worker Saad Edhi.
In an official statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad denounced the reported detention and mistreatment of individuals onboard the vessel, saying the incident represented a violation of international norms and humanitarian principles.
The Foreign Office said Pakistan viewed the operation carried out against the flotilla with serious concern, particularly reports suggesting that humanitarian workers and activists aboard the ship had been subjected to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment.
Among those reportedly detained is Pakistani humanitarian activist Saad Edhi, a member of the renowned Edhi humanitarian network known for its extensive welfare and relief operations.
“The Government of Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the unlawful interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli occupying forces in international waters as well as arbitrary detention and reported mistreatment of humanitarian workers onboard,” the Foreign Office statement said.
Islamabad urged Israeli authorities to immediately release all detainees and ensure their safety and wellbeing while in custody.
“Pakistan demands the immediate release of all illegally detained activists,” the statement added, while also calling on the international community to play its role in safeguarding the dignity, security and fundamental rights of those detained.
The Foreign Office further said Pakistani diplomatic missions in the region were actively engaged to monitor the situation and facilitate the safe return of any Pakistani nationals affected by the incident.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains in close contact with Pakistani diplomatic Missions in the region to ensure the safe return of any detained Pakistani nationals,” it stated.
The Global Sumud Flotilla was reportedly carrying humanitarian activists and aid workers seeking to draw international attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The interception has triggered criticism from rights advocates and activists in several countries, who argue that humanitarian missions operating in international waters should be protected under international law.
Pakistan has consistently voiced support for the Palestinian cause and repeatedly called for unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
