ALQUDS-DAY- Article - 2024
The observance of International Quds Day in times of genocide
The observance of International Quds Day in times of genocide
The annual observance of International Quds Day by millions of Muslims worldwide serves as a significant platform to express solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Every year on the last Friday of holy month of Ramadan, millions of Muslims worldwide participate in International Quds Day, a day established in 1979 by the Late Founder of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khomeini. This was the first time that a special day for the liberation of Palestine was celebrated internationally. Since this declaration, Quds Day has been marked with rallies and speeches by Muslims around the world, who gather after Friday prayers at the symbols of Zionist occupation in their respective countries.
The purpose of Quds Day, named after the Arabic word (Al-Quds), is to demonstrate unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their struggle against Israeli occupation.
Al-Quds, revered and iconic, encapsulates the resilient spirit of a people unwavering in their pursuit of justice, despite facing adversity. It symbolizes the enduring faith that transcends generations, offering a timeless message of hope and perseverance.
Over the past six months, a wave of protests has swept through various parts of the world, challenging the narratives put forth by governments, especially in Western nations. The calls for a ceasefire resonate with the shared humanity that transcends divides of religion, ethnicity, and nationality. Across diverse communities, including Muslims, Jews, Christians, and individuals from all walks of life, a unified voice emerges in Western cities, demanding an end to the tragic plight of civilians in Gaza.
But even before the Israeli genocide in Gaza began last October, there were growing numbers of demonstrators in the US, Europe, Asia and Africa marking Quds Day, with Muslims usually protesting after Friday prayers to draw attention to the ongoing occupation of Jerusalem.
The annual observance of International Quds Day by millions of Muslims worldwide serves as a significant platform to express solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Particularly this year, amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, a surge in global participation is anticipated, as the brutal realities of the Israeli regime's actions have galvanized international attention.
In response to the growing international condemnation of its policies, the Zionist regime has sought to delegitimize Quds Day and portray it as a manifestation of anti-Semitism or extremism. However, such efforts have largely failed to resonate beyond a narrow circle of the occupying regime’s supporters, as the principles of justice and solidarity that underpin Quds Day resonate with people of conscience worldwide.
Quds Day rallies shine a spotlight on the ongoing crimes committed against Palestinians and provide vital support to those living under occupation and siege.
Through Quds Day, the voices of the oppressed are elevated, and the reality of life under Israeli occupation is brought to the forefront of global consciousness. The rallies serve as a potent reminder of the urgent need for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, rooted in principles of equality, justice, and respect for international law.
In bringing the rightful voice of the Palestinians to the world stage, Quds Day rallies play a crucial role in challenging the dominant narratives that seek to justify or normalize Israeli aggression. By bearing witness to the suffering of the Palestinian people and standing in solidarity with their struggle for freedom and dignity, participants in Quds Day events contribute to the broader movement for justice and peace.
In conclusion, holding Quds Day is not merely a symbolic gesture but a powerful expression of solidarity and resistance. By making the crimes of the Zionist regime more visible and amplifying the voices of oppressed Palestinians, Quds Day rallies strengthen the global movement for Palestinian rights and bring us one step closer to realizing the vision of a just and peaceful future for Palestinians.