Anadolu's CEO discusses impactful images of Israeli atrocities, earthquake resilience at 10th İstanbul Photo Awards

By Aise Humeyra Akgun

ISTANBUL (AA) - The President and CEO of Anadolu, Serdar Karagoz, on Tuesday delved into the works honored at the 10th İstanbul Photo Awards, underscoring the striking portrayal of Israeli war crimes in Gaza and the theme of earthquake resilience.

Karagoz unveiled ambitious plans for global exhibitions and events to commemorate the awards' milestone 10th year. He also conveyed heartfelt condolences to Anadolu cameraman Mohamed Alaloul, who tragically lost his four children in Israeli assaults, citing a poignant photograph capturing his grief.

Reflecting on this year's competition, Karagoz emphasized the profound impact of images exposing Israeli atrocities in Gaza, noting: "The international jury, comprising eminent figures in photography, bestowed Reuters photographer Mohammed Salem's poignant work 'Palestinian Woman Embracing Her Nephew's Lifeless Body' with the prestigious Photo of the Year accolade. Like Salem, numerous journalists risk their lives to shed light on the genocide and human rights violations unfolding in Gaza."

Karagoz also highlighted the significant theme of the 2024 İstanbul Photo Awards: The earthquakes of Feb. 6, 2023.

"Last year, our nation grappled with a devastating earthquake on Feb. 6. This year, many international photographers submitted captivating images depicting the earthquake's aftermath and the resilient spirit of solidarity. Our jury recognized Adem Altan from Agence France-Press (AFP) with third place in the Single News category, Jacob Ehrbahn from Politiken with third place in the Series News category, and Sameer Al-Doumy from AFP with the Young Photographer award for their compelling earthquake photographs," he remarked.

Karagoz revealed that the roster of winning photographers included globally acclaimed names like John Stanmeyer, Adam Pretty, and Mads Nissen, alongside freelance journalists from diverse corners of the globe, spanning Indonesia to Italy.

He outlined plans for exhibitions across different global locales and innovative events to mark the İstanbul Photo Awards' milestone anniversary, extending congratulations to all the winners.

In a solemn gesture, Karagoz reiterated condolences to Anadolu cameraman Mohamed Alaloul over his unimaginable loss, acknowledging Samar Abu Elouf's prize-winning photograph, capturing Alaloul cradling his infant amidst the tragedy.