Montreal doctor on aid flotilla freed after arrest by Israel, husband says

Nimâ Machouf onboard the Conscience. (Source: @nimamachouf/Instagram)

The Montreal doctor who was arrested by Israeli forces after they intercepted an aid flotilla near Gaza has been freed.

Amir Khadir confirmed to CTV News in a text message on Friday that his wife, Nimâ Machouf, has been released from custody and is now in Istanbul.

Attempts to reach her were unsuccessful.

Machouf, an epidemiologist, and five other Canadians on board the Conscience were arrested in the middle of the night on Wednesday. The group attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza as part of the freedom flotilla movement.

• Gaza flotilla: Canada demands Israel release 6 Canadians, including Montreal doctor

Following their arrest, the Canadian government had demanded that Israel ensure their “swift release.”

Three of the six Canadians on board have been freed, while the other three are reportedly still detained in Israel.

Global Affairs Canada could not be immediately reached for comment.