A Dad who assisted in a flotilla to attempt to provide aid to people in Gaza has arrived safely back in Reading.
Jubair Khan, a father of three from Reading, was captured by Israeli naval forces in the Mediterranean Sea while taking part in an aid flotilla to Gaza.
He had joined the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was hoping to deliver aid including food, baby formula and medical aid to people in the Gaza Strip.
Mr Khan was travelling aboard the Polish ship, The Tenaz, whose crew included the President of Ireland’s sister, Dr Margaret Connolly.
The Tenaz was intercepted in the international waters of the Mediterranean Sea, 70 nautical miles from Cyprus.
It was among 28 aid ships intercepted by the Israeli Navy on Monday, May 18.
Mr Khan and his crewmates were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a flotilla of 50 ships attempting to deliver life-saving aid to Gaza.
He safely returned to Reading on Thursday, May 21.
A statement on the Reading Muslim website reads: “Alhamdulillah, Jubair is safe.
“Reading Muslim is relieved to confirm that our brother Mr Khan has been released after being held in Israeli captivity for three days following the unlawful interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
“Mr Khan underwent medical checks in Istanbul before returning home.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who made du’a prayers, contacted their MP, shared the campaign, supported his family, attended meetings, and helped keep public pressure on those in power. Alhamdulillah, and thank you.
Mr Khan’s councillor, Jacqueline Dominguez (Green, Abbey), called for Israeli defence forces to immediately release him following his capture.
She said: “This is an extremely urgent situation that raises questions about why the UK government is silent about the kidnapping of a British citizen and ignoring international law.
“Mr Khan is a peaceful humanitarian aid worker whose safety must be guaranteed so he can return home immediately and unharmed to his family.”
This was echoed by Rob White, leader of the main opposition party on the council.
Cllr White said: “Mr Khan is a British civilian taking part in a humanitarian mission.
“He acted out of a desire to help relieve the suffering of innocent civilians.
“He should not be criminalised for taking part in peaceful humanitarian action.”
Mr Khan was born and raised in Reading, and still lives in the town with his wife and three children.
He works as a video producer and has produced videos for the Red Cross.
Mr Khan met with cllrs Dominguez and White following his safe return.
Since an Israeli naval blockade in mid-2009, no humanitarian flotillas have safely reached Gaza.
