By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY
Every year, on the last Friday of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe “Quds Day” or “International Quds Day.” This day is marked as a protest against the Israeli occupation of Jerusalem and as a show of support for the Palestinian people. Quds Day is not just about advocating for Palestinian rights but also symbolizes the unity of the Muslim Ummah.
Why Do Muslims Observe Quds Day?
Jerusalem holds great significance for Muslims as it is home to Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam’s third holiest site. Muslims believe that this is the place from where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to the heavens during the Isra and Miraj journey. Since the establishment of Israel in 1948, Palestinian people have faced immense hardships, including the occupation of Jerusalem. In the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel seized East Jerusalem and later declared it its capital, a move not recognized by most countries.
Muslims observe Quds Day to protest against Israeli occupation and to express solidarity with the Palestinian people. The purpose of this observance is to draw the world’s attention to the gravity of the Palestinian issue and to raise voices against Israeli oppression.
Iran’s Connection to Quds Day
Quds Day was established in 1979 by the founder of Iran’s Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. After the revolution, Iran declared Israel an illegitimate state and expressed full support for the Palestinian cause. Ayatollah Khomeini called for the last Friday of Ramadan to be observed as “Quds Day” so that Muslims worldwide could unite and highlight the plight of Palestine.
Iran organizes large-scale rallies and seminars on Quds Day every year, during which support for Palestine is expressed and protests against Israel take place. This day is also considered a key part of Iran’s foreign policy, as it emphasizes its anti-Israel stance and aims to shape global public opinion in favor of the Palestinian cause.
Significance of Quds Day Worldwide
Although Quds Day originated in Iran, it is now observed in various countries. Many protests and demonstrations take place in support of Palestine, particularly in the Middle East, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, Iraq, and other Muslim-majority nations. Even in some Western countries, human rights activists and pro-Palestine groups participate in Quds Day events.
This day has become a symbol of Muslim unity and solidarity, and its observance each year helps keep the Palestinian struggle alive on the global stage. Quds Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the ongoing occupation and mobilizing international opinion against Israeli policies.
