Thousands Rally in Delhi Demanding Ceasefire, Condemning Israeli Strikes on Gaza
A large protest took place in New Delhi on Thursday, where citizens from various walks of life came together to express solidarity with the people of Gaza and strongly condemn ongoing Israeli military operations. The demonstrators raised alarm over the deepening humanitarian crisis and called for immediate international intervention.
Hundreds of participants — including students, civil society activists, religious leaders, and political figures from Delhi and neighboring states — joined the protest. Organizers emphasized that the diverse turnout reflected a unified demand for peace and justice, cutting across religious and ideological lines.
Speakers at the demonstration denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “brutal aggression” and a case of “ongoing genocide.” Citing reports of around 100,000 Palestinian casualties since October 2023, they highlighted the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, including homes, hospitals, and schools. Protesters warned of an impending famine as Gaza’s infrastructure nears total collapse under siege conditions, and demanded the immediate lifting of the blockade.
The gathering reaffirmed a list of demands originally outlined by Indian Muslim organizations and civil society groups, including:
- An immediate and permanent ceasefire backed by the international community.
- Establishment of humanitarian corridors to deliver food, water, fuel, and medical aid into Gaza.
- Condemnation of Israel’s military actions by the Indian government and a halt to all strategic and military cooperation.
- Support for the ICC’s arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and endorsement of the UN General Assembly’s call for an independent Palestinian state.
- A reaffirmation of India’s legacy of standing with oppressed peoples and supporting international peace efforts.
- Encouragement for Indian civil society to launch awareness campaigns, boycott Israeli products, and engage in peaceful solidarity efforts.
Speakers also urged Muslim-majority nations to intensify diplomatic pressure on both Israel and the United States to bring an end to the conflict. “Silence in the face of genocide is unacceptable,” a statement echoed by many participants, who called for urgent action from governments, institutions, and individuals worldwide.
Notable speakers at the event included Syed Sadatullah Husaini (President, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind), Maulana Hakeemuddin Qasmi (General Secretary, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind), Professor Apoorvanand (Delhi University), Professor VK Tripathi, senior advocate Indira Jaising, and representatives from various student groups and civil society organizations.
