– Maaz Ahmed Javed (M.Tech., AMU)
On January 20, 2025, the streets of Gaza presented a remarkable scene. On one side, the entire area stood as a vivid image of Israeli brutality that had been ongoing for fifteen months. Rubble from destroyed buildings was scattered everywhere. On the other side, amidst this debris, crowds of people were gathered on the streets and highways. Their faces were filled with joy. People were celebrating, many of them chirping with happiness. One scene in particular showed a group of people surrounding an armed fighter, chanting slogans and singing patriotic songs in joy. Yet, every single person present had lost a loved one in this war. Who are these people? What is the essence of their strength? After enduring such immense trials, how are they still able to celebrate? These are the people of Gaza. Gaza is part of the land of Syria, which is mentioned in various prophecies in the Hadith. Today, we are witnessing the fulfilment of those prophecies with our own eyes.
Over the course of these fifteen months, the people of Gaza have faced all kinds of hardships. It is estimated that the amount of bombs and explosives used in Gaza during this time is equivalent to what the U.S. used in Afghanistan over a period of eighteen years. Israel’s brutal terrorist government did not hesitate to target not only public and residential buildings but even hospitals. A severe blockade was imposed, making it difficult to obtain food, medical supplies, and essential services. As a result, many people died due to food shortages and many others due to a lack of medication. The videos that were broadcast during this time were so distressing that just watching them made us feel anguish. Now, reflect on what the people who were suffering through these hardships must have been experiencing. But the image of January 20 tells us that these are no ordinary people. They are the people whom the Quran speaks about: “We will certainly test you with a touch of fear and famine and loss of property, life, and crops. Give good news to those who patiently endure.” (Al-Baqarah: 155). Consider this: all the trials mentioned in this verse, the people of Gaza have faced. They have endured fear, hunger, thirst, loss of wealth, and income. But through it all, they have demonstrated patience and perseverance. Today, after fifteen months, they are celebrating with joy.
This victory is not just for the people of Gaza but for all Muslims and every humanitarian across the world. They have every reason to be happy because the victory of Gaza is no ordinary one. Through their resilience, they have shown the world that they have defeated the world’s greatest evil – Israel, supported by the U.S. and NATO allies. Even Israeli media, famous worldwide for its lies and propaganda, was forced to admit that Israel has lost. This, despite Israel’s technical, military, economic, and political power. Moreover, Israel had the support of all the world powers behind it, and its coffers were filled with wealth from around the globe. Yet, in the end, how did they face such a humiliating defeat, with their credibility shattered and the world increasingly seeing them as terrorists? The world now desires to rid itself of this dirty existence.
Amongst the rubble, Palestinians are celebrating a cherished victory which demanded immense resilience and sacrifice
During this period, a global consensus has emerged in support of Palestine. Every justice-loving individual has begun to see Palestinian fighters as heroes and has started to admire their blessed struggle. Importantly, the people of Gaza’s patience and steadfastness have inspired many to feel a deep affection for Islam and Muslims. People began to wonder about the source of their spiritual strength, asking what ideology drives them. Many, in this search, found refuge in Islam. They discovered that Dawah (inviting others to Islam) and Jihad are two sides of the same coin. A nation that triumphs in the battlefield of Jihad is the one whose ideology flourishes and whose struggle is embraced by the world.
During this period, many incidents related to the people of Gaza have been revealed, which can strengthen our faith. The martyrdom of over a hundred thousand people is no ordinary event. Yet, instead of mourning and lamenting, the people of Gaza have celebrated their martyrs because they have full faith in the promises of the Quran. They remember Allah’s declaration: “Do not say of those who are killed in the way of Allah, ‘They are dead.’ Rather, they are alive, but you do not perceive it.” (Al-Baqarah: 154). Gaza’s leadership has shown that they are not traitors but are fully aware of the trust bestowed upon them. The leadership fought side by side with the people, shoulder to shoulder, in Jihad and embraced martyrdom. They have proven that they truly deserved this position, and any nation could take pride in them.
We pray for them: “Peace be upon you, peace be upon you who were patient and stood firm on the frontlines. Peace be upon you for your steadfastness against oppression. Peace be upon the souls of the martyrs, the innocent children, and the oppressed. Peace be upon the souls who will one day roar in the free air of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa. Peace be upon you, great people, for you have exposed the hypocrisy of this world and its false laws and double standards.”
This fifteen-month ordeal has removed all doubts from everyone’s hearts. Yet, there are still some people who remain skeptical. They are unable to distinguish between truth and falsehood. Even after such clear signs, those who are still in doubt should examine their faith. Such individuals have hearts filled with hypocrisy. There is a difference between certainty and doubt, and if they do not take serious account of themselves, their fate may be at risk. We pray to Allah to grant us the strength to hold on to the truth in this trial. Ameen.
