International Day of Quds: A Call for Unity and Justice
Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
The Page International
www.rachughtai.com
Introduction
The International Day of Quds, observed annually on the last Friday of Ramadan, is a day of solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people and a protest against the occupation of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) by Israel. This day, initiated by the late Imam Khomeini (R), serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing injustices in Palestine and the moral responsibility of the Muslim Ummah and the international community to stand against tyranny. Today, the significance of Quds Day is greater than ever, as Israel continues its aggression in Gaza, violating human rights and international laws.
Importance of the Day
Quds Day is not just a symbolic protest but a call to action for Muslims and peace-loving people worldwide. It aims to:
Highlight the plight of the Palestinian people who have suffered under Israeli occupation for decades.
Promote global awareness about Israeli atrocities, including the blockade of Gaza, illegal settlements, and military aggression.
Encourage unity among Muslims, transcending sectarian divides, to collectively support Palestine.
Remind the world that Quds is not just a Palestinian or Arab issue but a matter of human rights and justice.
Historical Background of the Day
Imam Khomeini (R) declared the last Friday of Ramadan as International Quds Day in 1979, soon after the Islamic Revolution in Iran. He envisioned this day as an opportunity for Muslims and justice-seekers worldwide to rise against the occupation of Al-Quds and support the Palestinian cause. Over the years, Quds Day has gained momentum, with massive rallies in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Pakistan, and other countries. However, despite global demonstrations, Israel’s occupation remains, with increasing support from Western powers.
The Status of Al-Quds (Jerusalem)
Al-Quds holds immense religious, historical, and political significance:
It is the third holiest site in Islam, home to Al-Aqsa Mosque.
It has been the center of conflict between Palestinians and Israel since 1948.
Under international law, East Jerusalem is considered occupied Palestinian territory, yet Israel continues its illegal expansion.
Despite UN resolutions condemning Israeli policies, the situation in Al-Quds remains dire, with forced evictions of Palestinians, the demolition of homes, and violent suppression of protests.
Why is the Muslim Ummah Not United on This Issue?
One of the major challenges in addressing the Quds issue is the disunity among Muslim nations. Several factors contribute to this:
Geopolitical Divisions:. Many Arab nations have normalized ties with Israel, sidelining the Palestinian cause for political and economic gains.
Sectarian Differences : Some view Quds Day as an Iranian initiative rather than a collective Muslim duty.
Western Influence: Pressure from Western powers, particularly the U.S., discourages strong action against Israel.
Lack of Leadership: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has failed to take a decisive stand, limiting its role to issuing statements rather than implementing concrete policies.
Beyond Sectarian Boundaries: A Humanitarian Issue
The struggle for Quds is not a sectarian matter but a universal issue of human rights. Every humanitarian, regardless of religion or ideology, condemns Israel’s brutalities in Gaza and the West Bank. The recent attacks on hospitals, schools, and civilian areas in Gaza have further exposed the Zionist regime’s disregard for human life. International organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have documented Israel’s war crimes, yet little action has been taken to hold it accountable.
The Growing Importance of Quds Today
The importance of Quds has increased over the years due to:
Increased Israeli Aggression: The recent massacres in Gaza and the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque have intensified the Palestinian struggle.
Global Support for Palestine: Protests in Western countries show that people are recognizing the oppression of Palestinians.
Geopolitical Shifts : The Abraham Accords and the changing stance of Arab nations have further complicated the situation, making unity even more necessary.
The Role of the OIC in Supporting Quds
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has a responsibility to take stronger action in defense of Palestine. Instead of merely issuing condemnations, the OIC should:
Demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and international intervention to stop Israeli aggression.
Impose economic sanctions on Israel for its violations of human rights.
Provide direct financial and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Work with international organizations to hold Israel accountable for war crimes at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Recommendations
- Resolution Through Dialogue and Diplomacy
The Palestinian issue must be resolved through diplomatic negotiations, ensuring a fair and just solution that upholds Palestinian rights. The United Nations, Arab League, and OIC should facilitate peace talks between Palestine and Israel with clear terms based on international law.
- Role of Global Leaders in Resolving the Quds Issue Donald Trump’s Potential Role: Although his policies favored Israel during his presidency, Trump has often positioned himself as a dealmaker. If he returns to power or remains influential, he should be encouraged to mediate a just resolution.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS):. MBS has played an active role in global peace efforts, including negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He should extend the same efforts to resolving the Palestinian crisis, advocating for Muslim unity and international intervention. - Mobilizing the Muslim Ummah for a Unified Stand
Muslim nations should set aside their differences and form a united front against Israeli occupation.
The OIC should organize a special summit solely dedicated to the Quds issue, ensuring participation from all 57 member states.
Governments should use their diplomatic channels to pressure Israel to end its aggression.
- Strengthening Economic and Political Pressure on Israel Boycotting Israeli products and businesses that support the occupation. Lobbying international organizations to impose sanctions on Israel. Supporting Palestine through financial aid, healthcare, and reconstruction projects.
- Raising Awareness and Strengthening Media Advocacy
Utilizing social media platforms to spread awareness about Israeli atrocities.
Encouraging global media houses to report objectively on the Palestinian struggle.
Promoting academic research and publications on the historical and legal aspects of the Palestinian issue.
Conclusion
International Quds Day is more relevant today than ever before. The continued occupation of Al-Quds and the suffering of the Palestinian people demand urgent global action. Muslim nations, along with international peace advocates, must unite to push for a resolution based on justice and human rights. The role of influential leaders such as MBS and global organizations like the OIC is crucial in turning the tide against Israeli oppression. The time for mere statements has passed—concrete actions must be taken to secure justice for the people of Palestine.
Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
www.rachughtai.com