WIO Welcomes Hamas Response, Demands Safe Return of Senator Mushtaq from Israel

The World Islamic Organisation (WIO) has welcomed Hamas’ response to the US peace plan announced by former US President Donald Trump and called for urgent efforts to secure the safe return of Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, who was recently detained by Israeli forces.

WIO Chief Dr. Mazhar Shafi expressed concern over the senator’s arrest after Israeli authorities intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla. He urged the Pakistani government to take swift diplomatic measures for the release of Senator Mushtaq and other Pakistani nationals currently in Israeli custody.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing stance on the Palestine issue, Dr. Shafi emphasized the importance of establishing an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital.

Commenting on Hamas’ recent statement supporting a ceasefire, he described it as a “rare opportunity” to halt the genocide of Palestinians and pave the way for peace in the Middle East. He stressed that a ceasefire in Gaza would prevent further bloodshed and revive hope for a permanent Palestinian state.

Dr. Shafi also extended gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, regional leaders, and international partners — including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkiye, Jordan, Egypt, and Indonesia — for their continued efforts in supporting the Palestinian cause.

“The statement issued by Hamas offers a ray of hope for a ceasefire and must not be ignored. This is a historic chance to bring peace and stability to the region,” he added.