Renowned Bangladeshi photographer and human rights activist Shahidul Alam is expected to arrive in Dhaka on Saturday morning following his release from Israeli custody.
His flight, departing Istanbul at 6:45pm on Friday, is scheduled to land in Dhaka at 4:55am, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Turkey M Amanul Haq told TIMES of Bangladesh.
The renowned photographer and human rights activist’s return comes after extensive diplomatic efforts, marking a significant moment in his humanitarian journey.
On Friday, Shahidul Alam was freed from Israeli detention and arrived safely in Turkey.
His release followed a multinational diplomatic effort, led by Bangladesh and Turkey, to secure his freedom after he was detained by Israeli forces while participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission to Gaza.
Shahidul, who serves as the managing director of Drik, was aboard a vessel Conscience, part of the flotilla that set sail from Italy on 30 September 2025, to break Israel’s 18-year naval blockade on Gaza.
The flotilla, comprising journalists, human rights activists, and medical personnel from around the world, aimed to deliver much-needed aid to the people of Gaza.
A bold mission to Gaza
For Shahidul, the mission was deeply personal. As Bangladesh’s only representative, he carried not just his own resolve but the solidarity of his country.
Before the flotilla set sail, he expressed his commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating, “What is happening in Gaza is a genocide. If we are defeated in this struggle, humanity itself will be defeated.”
His participation underscored his long-standing commitment to human rights and global solidarity.
Despite the flotilla’s speed, it faced significant challenges at sea, including delays caused by slower vessels and a major storm. However, Shahidul and his fellow passengers remained resolute. “No dictator has ever withstood the power of the people. Israel will not either. Palestine will be free,” he declared, reinforcing the determination of the convoy.
Interception and detention
On 7 October, Israeli military forces intercepted the flotilla near Gaza’s maritime border. The Conscience ship, along with several others, was seized, and passengers, including Shahidul, were detained.
This act drew international condemnation, with many governments and human rights organisations demanding their release.
Shahidul’s detention prompted urgent diplomatic action. Bangladesh’s government, in coordination with Turkey, launched a high-stakes campaign to secure his freedom.
Turkey’s government, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, played a critical role, expressing strong support for Shahidul and the flotilla’s humanitarian mission.
Global outcry and diplomatic push
The global response to Shahidul’s detention was swift. Prominent figures, including writers Arundhati Roy and Gayatri Spivak, joined the call for his immediate release, along with other activists detained on the flotilla.
Bangladesh’s diplomats in Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey worked tirelessly, liaising with their counterparts to pressure Israel for Shahidul’s release.
Turkey’s involvement proved instrumental in bringing Shahidul home. Authorities in Ankara, along with Bangladesh’s diplomatic network, managed to secure his release, despite the challenges involved in dealing with Israeli authorities.
Shahidul’s journey to Turkey
On October 10, Shahidul Alam was flown to Istanbul, where he received a warm welcome. His return marked the successful culmination of diplomatic efforts that saw regional cooperation from Bangladesh, Turkey, and other countries.
Bangladesh Consul General in Istanbul, Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, received Shahidul Alam upon his arrival at the airport in Istanbul on Friday afternoon (local time).
Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus thanked President Erdoğan for Turkey’s crucial role in facilitating Shahidul’s release.
Shahidul’s release and safe return were a testament to the power of international solidarity and diplomacy. His journey underscores the determination of human rights activists to stand up against injustice, no matter what the personal cost.
