Karachi, 12 Oct 2023: A protest rally, a pioneer among professional educational institutions, was organized at Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) to convey profound solidarity with the Palestinian people amidst the ongoing Gaza attacks. Professor Atif Hafeez Siddiqui, Director of Student Affairs, alongside other faculty members and students, articulated fervent support for the Palestinian cause, highlighting historical and current geopolitical contexts, especially with reference to Pakistan’s non-recognition of Israel and the noticeable support from Saudi Arabia towards Palestinian rights. Participants, wielding a notable 125 ft Palestinian flag, voiced their unity and support through various slogans during the rally, which navigated from the College of Pharmacy, Ojha Campus, to the main gate of Dow International Medical College.
Addressing those gathered, Professor Siddiqui spotlighted instances of what he termed grave injustices perpetrated in Gaza, notably citing significant bombings and subsequent civilian impact. He underscored that, despite the atrocities, prominent global superpowers and international forums, from the League of Nations to the United Nations, have yet to take a potent stance against such actions, seemingly providing supportive gestures towards Israel instead. He highlighted Pakistan’s steadfast position over 75 years, with non-recognition of Israel and unwavering support for Palestinian rights at both citizen and governmental levels. Moreover, the amplification of the Palestinian cause by Saudi Arabia was acknowledged as a bolstering force within the international struggle for these rights.
Siddiqui also elucidated the perceived muted responses to apparent violations of fundamental human rights, positioning that the major global powers appear united, especially in circumstances concerning the oppression of Muslim populations.
The rally at DUHS served as both a platform and symbolic gesture, expressing tenacious solidarity with Palestinians. Participants not only vocalized their collective stance through chants, such as “Labbayk Labbayk Ya Aqsa,” and “Pakistan Ka MATLAB Kia” “La Elaha Ellal Allah,” and “Palestine se Rishta Kia” “La Elaha Ellal Allah,” but also through the display of the lengthy Palestinian flag, reflecting a united front against the adversities faced by the Palestinian people.