KARACHI: Around 50 protesters gathered at the Karachi Press Club on Tuesday to demand the release of Pakistani activist Saad Edhi and other volunteers detained by Israeli forces after the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters.
The demonstration condemned Israel’s seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla boats, which were carrying medical supplies and food for Palestinians.
The activist’s father, Faisal Edhi, said Israeli forces intercepted some of the flotilla boats on Monday (May 18) in international waters near Cyprus, roughly 500 km from Israel, with no legal authority to carry out arrests in international waters.
“Israel does not have any right to carry out arrests in these waters,” Faisal Edhi said.
“That’s why I will request the Pakistani government to protest this internationally. And put pressure on the state of Israel to release Saad and other activists.”
The Israeli military has not yet issued a statement. In past interceptions, Israel has cited security concerns and a naval blockade on Gaza.
Saad Edhi is a member of the family that runs Pakistan’s largest welfare organization. Pakistani foreign ministry officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
