Secretary General of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and former Member of Parliament Professor Mia Golam Porwar issued a statement today, October 8
expressing concern and condemnation over the arrest of Bangladeshi photographer and writer Shahidul Alam by Israeli forces.

In the statement, Professor Mia Golam Porwar said: “On Wednesday (October 8), Israeli forces detained several vessels of the relief flotilla namely ‘Gaza Freedom Flotilla’, including the ship Conscience, in international waters while they were on their way to the besieged Gaza Strip. At that time, 93 journalists, doctors, and human rights activists were arrested, among whom was Bangladesh’s renowned photographer Shahidul Alam.

These vessels were carrying food, water, medicine, and other essential humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. I express my deep concern and strong condemnation over this inhumane and unlawful act of Israel.

He further said: “According to international humanitarian law and the Geneva Convention, no one can obstruct the delivery of humanitarian aid to its destination. By detaining these vessels and human rights workers, the occupying Israeli regime has committed a heinous crime against humanity. A wave of condemnation has already erupted across the world over this incident. This attack on the innocent people of Gaza marks a shameful chapter in the history of humanity.”

He added: “In order to ensure that the relief vessels reach their destination safely to save the lives of the starving and besieged people of Gaza, the international community must immediately exert pressure on Israel. At the same time, the safety and unconditional release of all detained human rights activists, including Bangladeshi photographer Shahidul Alam, must be ensured. I urge the global community to take a strong stand in this regard.”