Renowned Bangladeshi photographer and human rights activist Shahidul Alam is currently aboard the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla. On Thursday, he posted on Facebook that despite severe storms and challenging conditions, their journey toward Gaza continues.
Shahidul wrote that he is on the deck of the flotilla’s largest ship, the Conscience Flotilla. During last night’s storm, the ship increased its speed to navigate safely through the rough waters. He noted that some of the flotilla’s leading vessels have already been attacked by Israeli forces, but they remain unshaken. In his words, “We are on the way, we will break the blockade. Palestine will be free.”
In another post, Shahidul mentioned that due to limited space on the ship, he had to sleep on the open deck the first night. Later, because of the storm, he spent the night in a small corner near the exit gate.
He wrote, “My experience with remand and prison has prepared me for this situation. I have slept soundly through it all.”
Shahidul also shared that they are receiving messages of support and prayers from around the world, which he has passed on to his fellow crew members. He encouraged journalists seeking content or updates to contact the Drik office.
Regarding the detention of other flotilla ships, Shahidul described it as “Israeli piracy in international waters.” Yet he firmly stated, “We will break the blockade. Your solidarity is our strength, more than you can imagine. Palestine will be free.”
