In an extraordinary show of unity and solidarity, tens of thousands gathered at Dhaka’s historic Suhrawardy Udyan on Saturday, demanding justice for Palestine and an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza. The mass rally, marked by powerful speeches, emotional slogans, and prayers, brought together political leaders, Islamic scholars, and citizens from all walks of life.
The grand protest, titled “March for Gaza”, was organized by the platform Palestine Solidarity Movement Bangladesh. The event began at 3 PM with a recitation from the Holy Quran, setting a solemn tone for the gathering.
Renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Mizanur Rahman Azhari ignited the crowd with chants of “Free Free Palestine”, calling for global attention to the Palestinian cause. The rally also saw participation from another leading cleric, Shaykh Ahmadullah, as well as Qari Ahmad Yusuf Al-Azhari, adding spiritual weight to the protest.
A massive procession led by NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah concluded at Suhrawardy Udyan, joined by crowds from various mosques, unions, and madrasas across Dhaka. The protest site became a sea of Palestinian and Kalema flags, with placards reading “Stop the Genocide” and “Save Gaza” waving across the venue.
Publisher and editor of Amar Desh, Dr. Mahmudur Rahman, delivered a fiery speech from the main stage, drawing parallels between Zionist aggression and rising Hindutva ideology in South Asia. “India’s recent actions reflect the shadow of the Zionist project in this region,” he said, referencing changes to the Waqf Property Act and broader suppression of Muslim rights.
Dr. Rahman read out a five-point demand to the United Nations and the international community:
Prosecute Israel’s war crimes in international courts.
Ensure collective, effective action to stop the genocide.
Reinstate 1967 borders and return occupied land.
Recognize East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital.
Guarantee Palestinians’ right to sovereignty and security.
He also demanded the restoration of the “Except Israel” clause on Bangladeshi passports, affirming Bangladesh’s historical stance against injustice.
Leaders from major political parties—BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolon, and others—stood shoulder to shoulder on the stage. Notable figures included Salahuddin Ahmed, Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie, Mia Golam Porwar, and Nurul Haque Nur, showcasing rare political unity for a humanitarian cause.
The event concluded with a heartfelt prayer led by Baitul Mukarram’s Khatib, Mufti Abdul Malek, invoking divine help for the oppressed in Gaza. The sky echoed with “Ameen” as the crowd prayed with tearful eyes.
Liberty News’ national affairs correspondent states that from artists and poets to influencers and clerics, Dhaka’s rally created a powerful message: the people of Bangladesh stand firmly with Palestine.
LND/BG
