ISLAMABAD: Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad returned to Pakistan on Thursday after participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza. He was welcomed with a large public reception at Islamabad International Airport, where supporters from various religious and political parties chanted slogans, offered flower garlands, and applauded his arrival.
Members of Jamaat-e-Islami, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl, Central Muslim League, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, and other groups gathered to show solidarity. A convoy accompanied Ahmad as he addressed the crowd, describing his journey as a mission to “save Gaza.”
Ahmad claimed that Israeli atrocities had continued for two years, leaving 25,000 children disabled in Gaza. He praised the flotilla participants, noting that 80% were non-Muslims showing solidarity with Palestinians. He also revealed that he was detained by Israeli authorities, appeared before a judge twice, and refused to recognise Israel during his custody.
Rejecting international diplomatic initiatives like the two-state solution, the Abraham Accords, and former US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan, Ahmad declared, “Palestine belongs to the Palestinians and its capital must be Jerusalem.” He labelled Israeli leaders as “terrorists” and criticised global powers and Nobel Prize laureates for their silence.
Calling for national mobilisation, he announced the formation of “100,000 Pak-Palestine committees” and peaceful protests outside press clubs in every town. He urged for sit-ins at the US embassy and said thousands of volunteers from Karachi were ready to travel to Gaza in solidarity.
Ahmad condemned the use of force against demonstrators in Pakistan and warned political leaders against aligning with Israeli interests. He questioned the role of provincial governments and challenged political figures to clarify their stance on Palestine.
He concluded by emphasising national unity and reaffirmed his commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating he had been ready to sacrifice his life if necessary.
His return coincides with growing public outrage in Pakistan over the situation in Gaza, as solidarity campaigns and protests continue nationwide.
