Bangladeshi photographer and writer Shahidul Alam claimed in a Facebook video that he was intercepted and taken captive by Israeli forces while at sea. In the video released at approximately 10:20 am, Alam identified himself and alleged that he was detained by the Israeli Occupation Forces, accusing them of involvement in the Gaza conflict alongside the USA and other Western powers. He urged his supporters to persist in the fight for Palestinian freedom.
Details such as the specific location, time of interception, and Alam’s current status were not disclosed in the Facebook post. Concurrently, a Gaza-bound aid flotilla encountered resistance from the Israeli military, with at least three vessels, including the Gaza Sunbirds, Alaa Al-Najjar, and Anas Al-Sharif, reportedly intercepted about 220 kilometers off the Gaza coast. The Global Sumud Flotilla also reported that the Conscience ship, carrying journalists, doctors, and activists, was under threat.
Israeli authorities confirmed the interception of the boats, describing the incident as an attempt to breach the naval blockade and enter a combat zone. All passengers were reported safe and healthy, with plans for their prompt deportation. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition disclosed that the vessels carried essential aid valued at over $110,000 USD, comprising medical supplies intended for Gaza’s struggling hospitals. Recent months have seen Israel thwarting multiple international aid missions to Gaza, where the UN has warned of a severe famine crisis.
Just last week, Israeli naval forces halted a Global Sumud Flotilla comprising approximately 45 vessels, which included notable figures like Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. The incident sparked widespread protests throughout Europe.