The Bangladesh government, with active support from Turkey, has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure the release of journalist Shahidul Alam, who is currently detained in an Israeli prison.

Reports from Ankara suggest Turkish authorities are hopeful Alam could be flown to Turkey on a special flight later today, though official confirmation is yet to be received.

Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Turkey, Amanul Haque, confirmed late Thursday that the Turkish government is extending full diplomatic support to facilitate Alam’s release.

Following Alam’s detention, Bangladesh’s embassies in Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey have been instructed to stay in close contact with their respective foreign ministries to pursue urgent measures for his early return.

MN/