Pakistan condemns flotilla interception, demands release of activists

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs terms the incident “unlawful” and demands the immediate release of all individuals detained during the operation

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point news-May 21st, 2026) Pakistan has strongly condemned the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli forces in international waters, as well as the reported detention and alleged mistreatment of activists, including Pakistani humanitarian worker Saad Edhi.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs termed the incident “unlawful” and demanded the immediate release of all individuals detained during the operation. It also called on the international community to ensure the protection of detainees’ safety, dignity, and fundamental rights in accordance with international law.

The foreign office further stated that Pakistani diplomatic missions in the region are in close coordination with relevant authorities to secure the safe return of any Pakistani nationals involved in the flotilla.

The statement comes amid widening international criticism over the handling of detained activists after Israeli naval forces intercepted the aid flotilla bound for Gaza and transferred hundreds of participants to Ashdod port.

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Footage circulating on social media showed detainees, reportedly numbering around 430, being held in restricted conditions, with some seen kneeling with their hands bound and heads lowered in a holding area.

The images, linked to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have drawn strong condemnation from several countries, including the United States, Spain, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, France, Türkiye, Ireland, Germany, and Canada, as well as senior European Union officials.

The international community has called the treatment unacceptable and urged compliance with international humanitarian and legal standards.