IDF Attacks Freedom Flotilla Coalition— Photographer Shahidul Alam’s Ship Targeted First

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) has reported that Israeli forces attacked their Gaza-bound flotilla and seized several vessels. The coalition said the first strike was carried out on the ship Conscience, which carried Bangladeshi photographer Shahidul Alam.

The Conscience was carrying 93 journalists, doctors and crew members. FFC said that after the initial attack on that ship, Israeli forces also struck and detained three smaller boats.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed the attack and detention of the flotilla. In a post on X, the ministry said the attempted breach of the naval blockade and the attempt to enter a combat zone were foiled as a matter of law and security.

The statement added that the seized vessels and detained passengers have been taken to an Israeli port, and that all are safe and in good health. It said the detainees will soon be repatriated.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim strongly condemned the Israeli attack and demanded the immediate release of Malaysian personnel who were aboard the flotilla.

In a video message posted on Facebook, photographer Shahidul Alam said: “I am Shahidul Alam, a photographer and writer from Bangladesh. If you are watching this video, we have been detained at sea. I have been abducted by the Israeli occupation forces. They, with the active cooperation and support of the United States and other Western powers, are committing genocide in Gaza.”

He added: “I call on all my comrades and friends to continue the struggle for Palestine’s freedom.”

Earlier, on Tuesday Shahidul had posted on Facebook that they might reach the “red zone” — a dangerous area — in the early hours of Wednesday.