International Al-Quds Day was observed on Friday in Rajshahi with a human chain and protest rally demanding the liberation of Al-Aqsa, the first Qibla of Muslims.

Following Friday prayers, the Imamia Janakalyan Foundation organized a human chain and protest gathering at Rajshahi Zero Point to mark the occasion.

Speakers at the rally said that this year’s International Al-Quds Day is significantly different from previous years, as the Muslim world—particularly Palestine—is witnessing what they described as a severe humanitarian catastrophe and one of the most brutal genocides in history. They alleged that Israel is not only carrying out violence in Palestine but, with the support of the United States, has also extended aggression toward Iran, Lebanon, and Yemen. According to the speakers, women, children, and elderly people are not being spared from these attacks.

They expressed concern over what they described as the surprising silence of major world powers and international organizations in the face of such humanitarian crises. At the same time, they praised what they called the steadfast faith and resistance of the people of Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran.

The speakers expressed hope that the sacrifices of innocent people would not go in vain and that Al-Aqsa would eventually be liberated.

They noted that Ruhollah Khomeini, the architect of the Iranian Revolution, had declared the last Friday of Ramadan as International Quds Day, which has since gained global recognition. Demonstrations, rallies, and public gatherings supporting Palestine were reported across many parts of the world, including Western countries.

The speakers expressed optimism that continued global pressure could eventually lead to the fall of what they described as an oppressive regime and the freedom of Palestine and Al-Quds. They also highlighted that the Islamic Republic of Iran has supported the Palestinian cause for more than four decades and would continue to do so.

They further stated that the holy city of Al-Quds, or Jerusalem, also known as Baitul Muqaddas, is considered Islam’s third holiest site after Mecca and Medina, as it is home to Al-Aqsa Mosque, the first Qibla of Muslims. According to Islamic belief, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began the journey of Isra and Miraj from this mosque.

Among the notable speakers at the rally were Hujjatul Islam Wal Muslimeen Maulana Nadim Reza, Syeda Rebecca Ali Abedi, Syeda Rubina Yasmin, and Director of the Muhammad Amin Farsi Education Center in Rajshahi, Hujjatul Islam Wal Muslimeen Sheikh Ali Akbar.

The program concluded with a protest procession that marched through several streets of the city.