Press item

Muslim Aid organised prayers which took place in Mosques across the country on Saturday 10th January, to pray for the civilians in war-torn Gaza. More prayers will taking place for Gaza at the East London Mosque this Saturday 17 January 2009, 11pm until 2am.

East London Mosque & London Muslim Centre in London, As-Suffa Institute in Birmingham and Blackpool Islamic Community Centre were just some of the many mosques which performed Du’a (prayer) Qunoot Naazilah after the Isha (evening) prayer. The Qunoot-Naazilah is a special prayer Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to recite when a major difficulty or disaster befell the Muslims. The prayers highlights how close the suffering in Gaza is to the hearts of the Muslim community, and the compassion and solidarity felt by Muslims in the UK.

“The attacks on Gaza have caused alarm throughout the world, and the dire humanitarian situation continues to worry us all. Muslim Aid volunteers and supporters have been tremendous in their generosity since the beginning of this conflict. Whilst we try to ensure we can get as much humanitarian aid into Gaza as possible, we must not forget that we can and must do more. I want to encourage everyone, young and old, to continue giving and join with thousands across the UK in attending these special prayers for peace in Gaza and an end to the suffering” said Isa Abdul Jolil, Fundraising Manager for Muslim Aid.

Muslim Aid has launched an emergency £2 million appeal to shelter and support those affected in Gaza. We have been delivering food packs to families and medical supplies to hospitals and clinics since the conflict began 12 days ago. Muslim Aid is also working with its partners to ensure that children and families receive social and psychological care for those traumatised by the recent events.

More prayers will taking place for Gaza at the East London Mosque this Saturday 17 January 2009, 11pm until 2am.