Photographer and activist Shahidul Alam has called upon the global community to unite in support of the Gaza-bound freedom flotilla, emphasizing the need for collective action to ensure its success. In a message shared on his verified Facebook page, he urged for public pressure on Israel to allow safe passage for the flotilla, highlighting the importance of standing up for rights and justice together.
Expressing concerns about potential arrest and deportation by Israeli forces in international waters, Shahidul acknowledged the uncertain outcome but emphasized the significance of taking action in the face of adversity. He is the sole Bangladeshi onboard the vessel “Conscience,” which aims to challenge the “illegal siege” in Gaza and show solidarity with journalists and health workers facing peril in the region.
Departing from Italy on September 30, the Conscience was last reported at a distance of 444.6 kilometers from the Gaza Sea Port on October 5, according to the live tracker on the Global Sumud Flotilla’s official website. Shahidul also expressed appreciation for the well wishes received, including a message from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, underscoring the support from both local and international well-wishers.
The flotilla, led by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) and Thousand Madelines to Gaza (TMTG), includes the Conscience as its flagship vessel along with 10 other smaller boats carrying journalists, medical professionals, and humanitarian workers. The FFC, a global civil society movement, aims to challenge the Gaza siege enforced by Israel since 2007.