Protest in Islamabad backs Gaza flotilla, demands release of detained Pakistani activist
Speakers said the demonstration expressed both solidarity with the flotilla and outrage at Israel’s detention of Khan, who is leading the Pakistani delegation on the mission
By MNTV staff
ISLAMABAD (MNTV) – Hundreds of activists gathered outside the National Press Club in Islamabad on Thursday under the scorching afternoon sun to demand the release of former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who was arrested after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza.
The protest was jointly organized by the Pak Palestine Forum and the Palestine Action Coalition Pakistan, drawing students, workers, journalists, women, children, and religious scholars.
Protesters waved Palestinian flags and carried placards reading “Break the siege of Gaza” and “Humanitarian aid is not a crime.”
The demonstration expressed both solidarity with the flotilla and outrage at Israel’s detention of Khan, who is leading the Pakistani delegation on the mission.
Participants chanted slogans such as “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” “Down with Israeli terrorism,” and “Free Gaza, free Mushtaq.”
Some carried placards reading “Break the siege of Gaza” and “Humanitarian aid is not a crime.”
“Senator Mushtaq went to deliver food and medicine, not weapons,” said student activist Ayesha Malik.
“By arresting him, Israel has criminalized compassion.”
Mohammad Yousaf, a textile worker from Rawalpindi, said he joined the protest because he believed Pakistanis could not remain silent.
“Our brother is sitting in an Israeli detention because he stood up for Gaza. This is not just an attack on him, it is an attack on all of us.”
Several speakers urged the Pakistani government to step up diplomatic pressure.
“Mere statements are not enough,” said lawyer and rights advocate Farzana Qureshi.
“The government must summon Israel’s backers, raise this case at the UN, and demand the immediate release of ex-Senator Mushtaq and all detained activists.”
Participants also voiced anger at U.S. President Donald Trump’s recently announced Gaza plan, which they said rewards Israeli aggression while doing nothing to end the blockade.
“First they bomb Gaza, now they attack humanitarian ships, and Trump guarantees Israel cover,” said university lecturer Dr. Kamran Siddiq.
“Pakistan must reject this dangerous plan outright.”
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising over 40 vessels carrying hundreds of activists and humanitarian supplies, was intercepted by Israel in international waters earlier this week.
Organizers say more than 300 participants of multiple nationalities were detained and taken to Ashdod port for deportation.
Demonstrators in Islamabad vowed to continue pressure until Mushtaq Ahmad Khan and all detained activists are freed.
“This is not just about one man,” Dr. Kamran added. “It is about breaking the siege of Gaza and standing on the right side of history.”
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
