A Mass Protest by Muslims in Bangladesh, in Solidarity with Palestine

By, Md Maruf Hasan

Around 100,000 protesters gathered in Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Park to condemn Israel’s actions in Gaza and show support for Palestine. The crowd, waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free, Free Palestine,” carried symbolic coffins and effigies to highlight the human toll of the Israeli occupation.

During the protest, IIUM alumnus, Dr. Mizanur Rahman called for global solidarity with Palestine, urging the international community to unite against the occupation. Another IIUM alumnus, Dr. Mahmudur Rahman, read proclamations demanding the end of Israeli occupation and the freedom of Palestine.

The rally sent a strong message for peace and justice, with protesters denouncing the support of key figures like US President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for Israel’s actions.

The Times of Israel reported that Bangladesh had reinstated the ‘except Israel’ clause on its passports—a move that comes a day after 100,000 people protested against Israel in Dhaka. The Muslim-majority country had removed the text in 2021 while still maintaining its policy of non-recognition toward Israel. The clause was initially lifted during Sheikh Hasina’s regime but has now been restored under the interim government led by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who is serving as the Chief Adviser.***

(The news article was adapted from: https://tinyurl.com/ybx3xt5s)