Ex-senator Mushtaq Ahmed a abducted by Israel during Sumud Flotilla interception

Former senator Mushtaq Ahmed, along with dozens of international activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, has been abducted by Israeli forces after several boats were intercepted on Wednesday, just 70 nautical miles from Gaza.

The status of the remaining members of the Pakistani delegation remains unclear.

The advocacy group Pak Palestine Forum shared an updated about the Pakistani delegation.

“Only one ship has managed to escape, i.e., [the] observer boat, whose duty was to collect information and escape. Our second delegate Syed Uzair Nizami was sailing on the observer boat and shared the information regarding the interception of Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan’s ship,” the group said,

At least 15 vessels have been intercepted so far, with climate activist Greta Thunberg also reportedly among those kidnapped by Israeli forces.

The flotilla, carrying over 500 activists on more than 50 boats, set sail to deliver aid and break the blockade of Gaza. While some vessels have been intercepted, several others continue their journey, attempting to bypass Israeli military patrols.

Israel blocked the vessel’s communication and jammed its live streams, leaving no contact with those who have been kidnapped. Activists who were intercepted said they were forced to throw their phones into the water to stop the occupation from stealing their data.

The Israeli assault on the peaceful humanitarian mission has sparked outrage worldwide, with protests erupting in Germany, Italy, Türkiye, and the UK.