ISLAMABAD: Pakistan continues to coordinate with allied nations to safeguard its nationals, reaffirming its commitment to their swift and safe return, the Foreign Office said Thursday, after Israel intercepted the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).
Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said Islamabad “unequivocally condemned” the interception, calling the flotilla a “vital humanitarian mission embodying global solidarity and moral resolve.”
“The Israeli actions constitute a grave violation of international law,” he added.
Khan noted that on September 16, Pakistan had joined 15 other countries in issuing a joint statement expressing concern for the flotilla’s security, stressing “the safety and well-being of Pakistani citizens aboard the flotilla are of paramount importance.”
“As Pakistan does not recognize Israel, we are working closely with international partners in the region to secure their immediate release and ensure their safety,” he said.
‘Barbarity must end’
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned what he described as a “dastardly attack” on the flotilla, which carried more than 450 humanitarian workers from 44 countries, including Pakistanis.
“We hope and pray for the safety of all those illegally apprehended by Israeli forces and call for their immediate release,” Sharif said. “Their crime was to carry aid for the hapless Palestinian people.”
“This barbarity must end,” the prime minister added.
“Peace must be given a chance and humanitarian aid must reach those in need.”
Global outrage
The Global Sumud Flotilla, the largest yet to challenge Israel’s Gaza blockade, sailed with over 40 vessels carrying activists, lawmakers, and campaigners, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Organizers said their mission was to “end Israel’s illegal siege and ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people.”
Israeli naval forces intercepted the flotilla in a 12-hour Mediterranean operation, detaining hundreds of activists and transferring them to Ashdod port. Israel said the flotilla aimed to breach a “legal maritime security blockade,” while rights groups and governments worldwide denounced the move.
Amnesty International called it “an act of intimidation intended to punish and silence critics of Israel’s genocide and its unlawful blockade on Gaza.”
Turkey described it as “an act of terrorism,” Spain demanded the release of 65 nationals aboard, and Colombia expelled Israel’s diplomatic delegation while terminating a trade agreement. South Africa also urged the release of all detainees, including Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela.
