Thousands march worldwide in solidarity with Palestine, Iran on al-Quds Day

Tens of thousands of people across the globe took to the streets to mark al-Quds Day, expressing solidarity with Palestinians and voicing support for Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Demonstrations unfolded in cities across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Europe, with protesters waving Palestinian flags, chanting slogans, and news24x7 calling for an end to what they describe as Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.

This year’s al-Quds Day rallies carried extra significance as they occurred during a rapidly escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

Despite airstrikes and mounting regional instability, large crowds gathered in places such as Tehran, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Srinagar, Islamabad, and Sanaa, highlighting the global resonance of the Palestinian cause and growing anger over the ongoing war.

For many participants, the demonstrations were not only a show of support for Palestinians but also a powerful message of defiance against Western and Israeli military actions in the region.

What Is Al-Quds Day?

Al-Quds Day, also known as International Quds Day, is an annual event observed on the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The day was first declared in 1979 by Iran’s revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to express solidarity with Palestinians and opposition to Israeli control over Jerusalem.

The word “Quds” is the Arabic name for Jerusalem, a city that holds profound religious and political significance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike.

Since its establishment more than four decades ago, al-Quds Day has evolved into a worldwide movement involving rallies, speeches, and demonstrations.

While originally promoted by Iran, the event is now observed by activists, political groups, and ordinary citizens across many countries.

Participants typically march through major city streets carrying banners that read:

• “Free Palestine”

• “End the Occupation”

• “Jerusalem Is Not for Sale”

Many demonstrations begin after Friday prayers, with mosques serving as gathering points for marches.

Massive Demonstrations Across the Middle East

Tehran: Defiance Amid War

The largest al-Quds Day rally this year took place in Iran’s capital, Tehran, where thousands of demonstrators filled central streets despite ongoing military strikes in the region.

Protesters waved Palestinian and Iranian flags while chanting slogans against Israel and the United States.

State media broadcast images of large crowds assembling in prominent squares such as Enghelab Square, where speeches were delivered by senior political figures and religious leaders.

The rallies occurred during a period of intense conflict between Iran and a U.S.–Israeli coalition, which has targeted several Iranian military installations and infrastructure sites.

According to reports, the war has already resulted in more than a thousand deaths and widespread destruction in multiple regions.

Despite the dangers posed by airstrikes, Iranian officials encouraged citizens to participate in the marches as a show of national unity and resistance.

Yemen: Houthi Supporters Fill the Streets

In Yemen’s capital Sanaa, massive crowds gathered for al-Quds Day rallies organized by supporters of the Houthi movement.

Participants marched through the city carrying banners condemning Israeli military operations and expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.