ISLAMABAD, Oct. 5 -- Pakistan is in close contact with its international partners to ensure the safety and swift repatriation of its citizens who have been illegally detained by Israeli occupying forces, the Foreign Office said on Sunday.

In response to media queries about the Pakistani nationals aboard the Sumud flotilla, the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad was among those detained but is safe and in good health.

"Through the diplomatic channels of a friendly European country, we have confirmed that former Senator Mushtaq Ahmad is in the custody of the Israeli occupying forces and is safe and in good health," the spokesperson said.

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