International Quds Day: A Global Stand for Palestine

The last Friday of Ramadan marks International Quds Day, a day dedicated to the Palestine, its oppressed people and the holy al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem al-Quds. This day, established by the late founder of Islamic Revolution, Imam Khomeini (RA), serves as a reminder of the duty to stand against Zionist occupation of the Palestinian lands and oppression against Palestinian nation. The occasion has become more relevant as Israel’s attacks on the besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank escalate, and as Palestinians continue to be displaced from their homeland.

Imam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, declared Quds Day as a day for the entire Muslim Ummah, transcending borders and sects. He stated:

"Quds Day is a day for Islam; it is a day when Islam must be revived and the laws of Islam should be implemented in Islamic countries."

For Imam Khomeini, the Palestinian struggle was not merely an Arab issue but an Islamic and humanitarian duty. His message remains alive today as millions across the world, particularly in Iran, march to show solidarity with Palestine.

In recent years, Gaza and the West Bank have become symbols of unbreakable resistance against Zionist aggression. With continuous bombardments, military raids, home demolitions, and settler violence, the people of Palestine endure relentless oppression. Despite these atrocities, the Palestinian spirit remains unshaken.

The forced displacement of Palestinians, especially in Gaza, echoes the original Nakba (Catastrophe) of 1948 when the Israeli forces expelled Palestinians from their land. This ongoing Nakba fuels global outrage and strengthens the resistance movement, which defends Palestinians’ right to their homeland.

A key element of Quds Day is defending the al-Aqsa Mosque, the first Qibla of Islam. The Zionist regime has repeatedly attacked and desecrated Al-Aqsa, allowing extremist settlers to storm its courtyards and imposing severe restrictions on Palestinian worshippers.

The protection of al-Aqsa Mosque is not only a Palestinian duty but an obligation upon the entire Muslim Ummah, as it holds immense spiritual and historical significance in Islam.

Palestine’s struggle has been upheld by brave martyrs who have sacrificed their lives in defense of their homeland. Leaders like Yahya al-Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, and Sayyid Hasan Nasrallah have played a crucial role in resisting Zionist oppression. Their sacrifices, along with countless Palestinian martyrs, remind the world that the fight for justice continues.

The term "Yawm al-Quds"- Quds Day- directly references the occupied Al-Quds, one of Islam’s holiest cities. Imam Khomeini designated the last Friday of Ramadan as Quds Day to align it with the spirit of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection, emphasizing that the struggle for Palestinian liberation is a sacred duty.

Quds Day is not only for Muslims but also for all who seek justice and oppose oppression. The unity of Muslims and freedom-seekers worldwide is essential in countering Zionist propaganda and pressuring governments to take action.

Every year, millions in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen, and beyond take to the streets for massive Quds Day rallies. These demonstrations include marches as the protesters chant “Death to Israel” and “Death to America”, expressing their opposition to Zionist oppression.

In some Western countries, pro-Palestinian demonstrations are growing despite government crackdowns and Zionist influence in the media.

Ayatollah Khamenei has repeatedly emphasized the significance of Quds Day, declaring:

"Quds Day is not merely about Palestine; it is a symbol of the global confrontation between truth and falsehood, between justice and oppression."

Under his leadership, Iran remains a steadfast supporter of Palestinian resistance groups, ensuring that the Zionist regime does not succeed in its expansionist goals.

International Quds Day is not just a day of protest; it is a global movement that amplifies the Palestinian struggle. The legacy of Imam Khomeini, the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, and the guidance of Ayatollah Khamenei ensure that the resistance continues.

As long as oppression persists, Muslims and freedom-seekers worldwide will commemorate Quds Day, standing firmly against Zionist crimes and occupation of the Palestinian lands until the objective of liberation of Palestine is achieved.