Unprecedented Turnout

Organizers reported that more than one million people participated in the rally, making it one of the largest pro-Palestine demonstrations in the country’s history. Participants from various walks of life, including students, political activists, and members of civil society, joined the march, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “Stop the Israeli aggression.” Arab News​

Symbolic Protests and Demands

The rally featured symbolic acts, including carrying bundles representing dead bodies to condemn Israel’s actions in Gaza. Protesters also displayed images of U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing them of supporting Israeli policies. AP News​

The Palestine Solidarity Movement Bangladesh presented several demands during the rally:

• Justice at the international court over the alleged massacre and ongoing attacks by Israeli forces in Gaza.​

• The interim government to terminate all contracts involving Israeli institutions.​

• A nationwide boycott of products made by companies associated with Israel. ​

The rally received backing from various political parties and organizations, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Islamist groups and other civil society organizations also expressed their solidarity with the cause. ​AP News

Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation with a population of approximately 170 million, has no diplomatic relations with Israel and officially supports an independent Palestinian state. ​AP News

Nationwide Impact

While the main rally took place in Dhaka, similar demonstrations were reported in other parts of the country, indicating widespread public support for the Palestinian cause. ​AP News

The “March for Gaza” rally underscores Bangladesh’s strong stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and reflects the nation’s commitment to advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people.

General students from several institutions, including BRAC University (BRACU), Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Daffodil International University (DIU), Dhaka University (DU), Green University of Bangladesh (GUB), Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), and Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) have penned statements declaring their support for the strike.

The call for the movement emerged amidst escalating violence by the Israeli Military in Gaza.

At least 12 departments of Dhaka University, along with the Law and Fine Arts faculties, have announced abstention from classes and examinations on April 7, expressing solidarity with the global community against Israeli aggression in Gaza.

The departments and institutions calling for the boycott include the Faculty of Fine Arts, Faculty of Law, Institute of Education and Research (IER), and the departments of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE), Nuclear Engineering, Psychology, Islamic Studies, Theatre and Performance Studies, Communication Disorders, Arabic, Sociology, Political Science, Finance, and Pali and Buddhist Studies.

Several other departments of Dhaka university expressed solidarity with the global demonstrations without boycotting classes.

News source- The Daily Star

Among the protesters was Angelique Aper, a former Dutch civil servant who resigned in protest against her government’s support for Israel. “The situation in Gaza is on my mind, especially what has happened this week,” she said. “Despite the violence, diplomatic, political, and economic relations with Israel continue as usual. The double standards are clear.”

The UN established the International Day Against Racism in the 1960s following the Sharpeville massacre in South Africa under apartheid rule. Organizers of the Amsterdam rally emphasized that with the far right gaining influence across Europe, including in the Netherlands, it is crucial to stand against racism and discrimination.

“We want to show that the Netherlands will remain a democracy that upholds the rule of law,” one organizer stated. “We will not tolerate divisive politics, and we demand that the government resign.”

Protesters also highlighted concerns over the Dutch government’s strict immigration policies. One undocumented participant shared their fears: “I worry every day. The government treats us differently, but we are all the same.”

Beyond Amsterdam, similar protests took place in France, where thousands marched in Paris and Marseille. Demonstrators expressed concern over the rise of far-right politics and Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza.

The large turnout in Amsterdam reflected growing public frustration—not just over the Palestinian crisis, but also over broader issues of racism and threats to democracy.

News source- Al Jazeera

Columbia University graduate Mahmud Khalil has released a statement from a detention facility in Louisiana, where he is being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Despite being a green card holder, Khalil was arrested due to his involvement in organizing pro-Palestinian protests on campus last year. In his statement, dictated over the phone to his family, Khalil described himself as a political prisoner, asserting that his arrest was a direct result of his advocacy for Palestine. He condemned the U.S. government’s continued support of Israel and the suppression of pro-Palestinian voices.

Khalil’s detention has sparked protests in New York, with demonstrators gathering in Times Square to demand his release and oppose the deportation of students involved in activism. The rally took place in the midst of an increasing crackdown on campus protests in support of Palestine, which has led to suspensions, expulsions, and attempts to deport international students. Many protesters covered their faces out of fear of being doxed or harassed but remained determined to speak out against the bombing of Gaza and the treatment of activists like Khalil.

The situation highlights a growing tension over free speech and student activism in the United States. Supporters of Khalil argue that his arrest is an example of political repression, while authorities claim they are enforcing the law. The demonstration in New York saw both pro-Palestinian activists and counter-protesters supporting Israel, creating a tense environment with a significant police presence.

As Khalil fights to stay in the country, his case has reignited discussions about government policies on dissent and immigration. His supporters continue to call for his release, hoping he will be free in time to witness the birth of his first child. The protests are expected to continue as activists push for greater protections for those speaking out against the war in Gaza.

News source- Al Jazeera

One of the most pressing concerns is the humanitarian crisis. The complete cutoff of aid and electricity has worsened conditions for civilians. Additionally, a recent United Nations report alleges that Israel has committed acts that could be classified as genocidal, particularly through the destruction of women’s healthcare facilities and the use of sexual violence as a war strategy. However, Israel’s representatives at the UN have strongly denied these claims, calling the report biased and unfounded.

The question arises: who is allowed to investigate and report on these events? Any attempt to scrutinize the situation is often met with pushback, casting doubt on the credibility of even respected international organizations. The media landscape further complicates the issue. A recent controversy surrounding a teenage documentary presenter and his family’s alleged ties to Hamas received extensive coverage, raising questions about selective media focus. Meanwhile, broader issues affecting Palestinian civilians remain underreported.

Amid these tensions, global political dynamics also come into play. Some argue that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies provided Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with unchecked freedom to act.

As the crisis continues, one must ask: has the world given up on Gaza? And if so, why?

News source- Middle East Eye

Since October 7th, Khaled has been at the forefront of London’s Palestine solidarity marches, raising awareness and calling for justice. He emphasizes that history will remember this moment, urging people to ask themselves how they responded in the face of such events.

On January 18th, more than 70 demonstrators were arrested at a London march, including an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor. Khaled himself has been asked to appear for questioning as part of an investigation into alleged breaches of public order laws. While unable to discuss specific details, he highlights the growing restrictions on civic freedoms, warning of a global erosion of rights.

Despite potential consequences, Khaled Abdullah remains steadfast in his activism. He believes that standing up for his beliefs has brought a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment to his life. As another demonstration approaches this weekend, he reaffirms his commitment to being there, continuing to use his voice for change.

As his advocacy gains attention, Khaled’s story serves as a reminder of the power of speaking out and the responsibility that comes with a public platform. His journey is one of courage, conviction, and an unwavering dedication to justice.

News source- Al Jazeera