Bangladesh Rises in Protest Against Israeli Attacks on Gaza

Cities across Bangladesh witnessed massive protests today as thousands of students, teachers, political activists, and ordinary citizens took to the streets in solidarity with the people of Palestine. The protests come in response to the ongoing Israeli military offensive in Gaza, which has left tens of thousands of civilians dead or wounded.

From Dhaka to Chattogram, and from Rajshahi to Patuakhali, people joined rallies, formed human chains, and staged demonstrations under the banner of a global campaign titled “The World Stops for Gaza”, demanding an immediate end to what protesters call a genocide against Palestinians.

Protesters Call for End to Violence in Gaza

In Dhaka, several demonstrations were held in front of the US Embassy in Gulshan, beginning around 11:00am. Students from United International University, Presidency University, UITS, and Bangladesh Navy College gathered near the diplomatic zone, chanting slogans like “Free, Free Palestine” and “Stop Genocide in Gaza.”

Security was tight in the area, with police and members of the armed forces deployed to maintain order. Protesters held placards and banners condemning the Israeli military campaign and expressing frustration over the silence of world leaders.

‘No Work, No School’ Campaign Gains Momentum

In support of the global call for a shutdown, Bangladeshi student groups had earlier declared a ‘No Work, No School’ campaign for today. As part of the movement, Dhaka University, Jahangirnagar University, Rajshahi University, North South University, and many other institutions suspended classes and administrative work.

Students gathered in large numbers at central points such as TSC, Shaheed Minar, and Bashundhara Residential Area, where they carried Palestinian flags and voiced support for the Palestinian people.

A student protester told reporters, “The world has failed to protect Gaza. We are raising our voice to stand with those who have been silenced.”

Effigies, Banners, and Human Chains

Throughout the capital, protesters carried effigies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, held up posters demanding accountability, and chanted slogans calling for international action.

Demonstrations were also held by students of BUET, Brac University, UIU, and University of Asia Pacific, who formed human chains on their campuses.

Outside Dhaka, the protests echoed strongly. In Chattogram, students from Chittagong Medical College, Government Hazi Muhammad Mohsin College, and others marched through their campuses.

Protests Spread Nationwide

In Narsingdi, thousands of students and members of Islamic political parties blocked the Dhaka-Sylhet highway, waving anti-Israel banners and calling for a boycott of Israeli products.

In Cumilla, large gatherings formed in Kandirpar, while in Chandpur, thousands joined a city-wide protest march, including students from medical and nursing institutes.

Rajshahi University witnessed a well-organized solidarity rally where students and teachers walked down the campus streets holding Palestinian flags. Similar rallies took place in Pabna, Patuakhali, and other districts.

A significant protest was seen in Patuakhali, where over 5,000 people, including families and children, marched through the streets, carrying messages of peace and unity with Gaza.

Institutions Support Global Strike

Universities such as Jahangirnagar University officially joined the global movement by suspending all academic and administrative activities for two hours, from 10:00am to 12:00pm. An official notice issued by the university’s registrar confirmed the decision. Some universities have also postponed classes and exams scheduled for tomorrow.

Gaza Death Toll Rises Sharply

Since Israel launched its large-scale offensive on October 7, 2023, the situation in Gaza has turned catastrophic. According to the Palestinian news agency Wafa, at least 50,695 Palestinians have been killed and more than 115,000 wounded, including thousands of women and children.

Reports from the United Nations suggest that nearly 69 percent of buildings in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged during the military operations. Entire neighborhoods have been flattened, and humanitarian aid remains critically limited.

Protesters across Bangladesh have urged the international community to step in immediately, hold Israeli leaders accountable, and ensure the safety and freedom of Palestinian civilians.