Bangladesh protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza draw 100,000 people
- Tens of thousands of protesters rallied in Dhaka's Suhrawardy Park.
- Demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and chanted slogans against Israel’s actions.
- The large turnout reflects Bangladesh's ongoing support for an independent Palestine.
On April 12, 2025, a large demonstration took place in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, where tens of thousands of people gathered to express their condemnation of Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip. The protest, estimated to have around 100,000 participants, was organized at Suhrawardy Park in the Dhaka University area and drew support from various political groups, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and several Islamist organizations. Protesters displayed their disapproval by carrying Palestinian flags and chanting slogans such as 'Free, Free Palestine,' highlighting their solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The demonstration included symbolic visuals, such as effigies and coffins representing civilian deaths in Gaza, reflecting deep-rooted sentiments against perceived U.S. and Israeli aggression. Images of prominent political leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi were also targeted, with claims of their complicity in the suffering of Palestinians. This protest reflects a significant moment in Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority country with a traditional stance of supporting Palestinian independence and opposing Israeli actions. Deep-seated animosity toward Israel and its allies continues to influence public sentiment, mobilizing thousands to demonstrate in favor of the Palestinian struggle for statehood. Such events underline the vital role that public demonstrations play in shaping political discourse, especially in nations with strong Muslim populations. With the background of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the rally serves as a reminder of the palpable global divisions regarding this issue and the continuing call for resolution and justice for Palestine. The protest also indicates the powerful influence of local political parties in galvanizing mass support around international causes, leading to significant expressions of national identity and political will.