Efforts to free Shahidul Alam with Turkey’s assistance: Press Wing

Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of journalist and photographer Shahidul Alam, detained in Israeli prison, with support from Turkey.

A statement from the verified Facebook page of the Chief Adviser to the Bangladesh Interim Government on Friday morning provided details.

According to the post, Turkish authorities are optimistic about the possibility of transporting Alam to Ankara via a special flight today, though they could not provide full assurance. Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Ankara, Amanul Haque, shared this update last night.

The Press Wing noted that following Shahidul Alam’s unlawful detention by Israeli authorities, Bangladesh embassies in Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey were instructed to engage with the respective foreign ministries and take immediate action for his release. These embassies remain in constant communication with local authorities to facilitate Alam’s freedom.

Shahidul Alam, managing director of Drik, was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s mission to Gaza, aimed at halting Israel’s actions in Palestine and breaking the naval blockade.

The flotilla, joined by eight boats from the Thousand Madelines to Gaza initiative, included politicians, journalists, doctors, and human rights activists from various countries.

Last Wednesday, Israeli forces attacked the flotilla, detaining all activists and sailors, including Alam.