Millat Times, in collaboration with the Institute of Objective Studies (IOS), organized solidarity Iftar for Palestine on the occasion of Al-Quds Day which aligns with global calls to end apartheid and occupation of Palestinians land. The event fostered critical dialogue on urgent global challenges—Israel’s ongoing massacring of Palestinians in Gaza, the brutal occupation of Palestine, the resistance to liberate Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the escalating humanitarian catastrophe.
It highlighted the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, where over 50,200 Palestinians have been killed and 113,800 wounded since October 2023, as Israel intensifies its genocidal war through bombardment and inhuman blockade .
An Introduction to Al-Quds Day
Al-Quds Day, or simply Quds Day is observed annually on the last Friday of Ramadan, is a global day of solidarity with the Palestinian people and their struggle against Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territories, apartheid policies, and systematic annihilation of their inalienable rights. Al-Quds Day unites voices worldwide to condemn Israel’s aggression and reaffirm Palestine’s unwavering resistance and right to self-determination.
Amid escalating genocidal aggression against Palestinians in Gaza, illegal settler colonial expansions and violence in occupied West Bank, and a suffocating blockade on Gaza—where over 2 million Palestinians endure dire humanitarian conditions—the day amplifies calls for justice, an end to occupation, and the right of return for refugees.
Inaugural Address
The Chief Editor of Millat Times, Shams Tabrez Qasmi inaugurated the event, highlighting Millat Times’ unwavering advocacy for Palestine cause, its role in exposing Israeli atrocities in Gaza and settler violence in occupied West Bank and independent media’s duty to combat disinformation while centering Palestinian narratives.
Key Speakers & Insights
Prof. Akhtarul Wasy, Former Chancellor of Maulana Azad University, delivered a thought-provoking address, emphasizing the historical and religious significance of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and the need for international solidarity against oppression. Renowned activist Sajjad Lon delivered a speech highlighting the grave humanitarian crisis in Gaza, shedding light on the war crimes being committed against innocent civilians and the dire need for global intervention. Prof. Afzal Wani, Chairman of IOS, spoke about the legal and human rights violations in Palestine, urging the intellectual community to raise its voice against the injustices.
Notable Attendees
The program witnessed the participation of several prominent individuals from the fields of journalism, academia, and social activism, including: Dr. Shahabuddin Saqib Qasmi (Senior Sub-Editor of Inquilab), Dr. Muzaffar Husain Ghazali (Senior Journalist), Salam Khan (Journalist), Prof. Naseem Akhtar, Shoib Raza, Journalist (India TV), Jawed Ahmad (Social Activist), Chashma Farooqi (Scholar), Dr. Yasmeen(Academic) and Mohammed Alam (General Secretary of IOS).
Urgent Call for Action
The speakers stressed that the atrocities in Gaza and the continuous attacks on Al-Aqsa Mosque are part of a larger agenda of Israeli aggression aimed at suppressing the Palestinian identity. They called for boycotting Israeli products, increasing diplomatic pressure, and mobilizing global opinion to support the Palestinian cause.
Commitment to Palestine
The discussions underscored the responsibility of the media in reporting the ground realities and countering misinformation spread by Zionist propaganda. Millat Times reaffirmed its dedication to highlighting Palestinian voices and exposing the atrocities committed in Gaza.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, justice, and the liberation of Al-Aqsa Mosque, along with a commitment to continue raising awareness on Palestine’s plight through media, academic discussions, and activism.
