Protest in Dhaka against Israeli atrocities in Gaza

DHAKA, April 12, 2025 – Today, tens of thousands of passionate individuals gathered at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan in the heart of the capital to participate in the 'March for Gaza' rally, a powerful demonstration against what many are calling the ongoing genocide in Palestine. This massive turnout highlighted the deep-seated concern and solidarity the Bangladeshi people feel toward the Palestinian cause.

The crowd was a vibrant tapestry of humanity, with attendees ranging from young children to the elderly. Families came together, united in their call for justice and peace. The sheer size of the gathering meant that every inch of the venue was packed with protesters, and many overflowed into the adjacent streets, creating a scene of solidarity that spilled into the surrounding neighborhoods.

As the rally commenced, the air buzzed with fervent slogans echoing the sentiments of the protesters: "From the River to the Sea, Palestine Will Be Free," "One, Two, Three, Four, Genocide No More," and "Free Free Palestine." These chants resonated throughout the area, reverberating off the buildings and into the hearts of all present. Traffic in surrounding areas—including Shahbag, Banglamotor, Science Lab, Paribag, Katabon, Bata Signal, Nilkhet, Bakhsi Bazar, Chankharpul, Purana Paltan, and Kakrail—came to a standstill for hours as the demonstration unfolded.

Although the official program started at 3:00 PM, people began to gather at the venue early in the morning, eager to show their support. Many carried colorful banners and festoons inscribed with various slogans denouncing Israel's actions and calling for an end to the violence that has claimed the lives of thousands, including a significant number of innocent children and women.

The rally was presided over by Maulana Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek, the Khatib of the National Mosque Baitul Mukarram. His presence lent a sense of gravitas to the proceedings, as leaders and activists from various political parties—including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizens' Party—joined cultural and social organizations in a collective show of support for the Palestinian cause.

One of the rally's key messages was a resounding demand for an immediate end to the atrocities being committed against the Palestinian people. Sheikh Ahmadullah, the chairman of the As-Sunnah Foundation, spoke passionately about the unity among the Bangladeshi people, saying, "We may have differences of opinions on various issues, but we are united for the freedom of Palestinians." He emphasized that an independent state is the rightful aspiration of the Palestinian people and that the people of Bangladesh, regardless of their religion or caste, stand in solidarity with them against oppression.

Islamic speaker Mizanur Rahman Azhari added to the sentiments expressed, stating that the large crowds at the rally were a testament to the Bangladeshi people's profound love for Palestine and Al-Aqsa. "Although Bangladesh is geographically far from Palestine, it remains forever in our hearts," he declared.

Mahmudur Rahman, the editor of Daily Amar Desh, took to the podium to read a declaration that outlined five critical demands directed at the United Nations and the international community. These demands included initiating trial proceedings against Israel in the International Court of Justice for its acts of genocide, coordinating collective efforts to stop the ongoing violence, ending the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land, recognizing East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine, and establishing sovereignty for the Palestinian territories.

In his address, Rahman urged leaders of the Muslim world to take decisive action by severing economic, military, and diplomatic ties with Israel. He called for the imposition of sanctions and the provision of humanitarian aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip. The rally also included a call for the Bangladeshi government to restore the 'Except Israel' clause on passports, send relief materials to Gaza, protest against the oppression of Muslims in India, and include the history of the Palestinian struggle in educational curricula.

As the 'March for Gaza' program drew to a close around 4:15 PM, the atmosphere shifted to one of reflection and hope as prayers for peace in Gaza were led by Khatib Mufti Abdul Malek from Baitul Mukarram. The event concluded with a profound sense of unity among participants, reinforcing their commitment to advocating for justice and human rights.

Among the notable figures present at the rally were BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, Jamaat-e-Islami secretary general Prof. Mia Golam Parwar, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Maulana Mamunul Haque, National Citizen Party chief organizer (south) Hasnat Abdullah, Bangladesh Labor Party chairman Mostafizur Rahman Iran, Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nurul Haque Nur, and 'Nirapod Shorok Chai' movement chairman Ilias Kanchan, emphasizing the broad coalition of support for the Palestinian cause that transcends political affiliations.