Muslim Aid sponsors Parliamentary event highlighting Gaza situation ahead of Ramadan

On Wednesday 6 March, Muslim Aid proudly sponsored a Parliamentary event at the House of Commons to raise awareness for plight of Palestinians in Gaza ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

Partnering with Anum Qaisar MP (SNP), Medical Aid for Palestinians, The Date Project and Caabu, the event drew MPs from all sides of the political spectrum to highlight the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Muslim Aid was represented by Khalid Javid (CEO) who held a moment of silence in honour of those who have died in the attacks.

His speech noted the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid through the Rafah border crossing to reach civilians. He paid homage to our staff in Gaza who are currently displaced and trying their best to survive in such circumstances.

“Muslim Aid has been Serving Humanity for over 38 years across the world, and what is amazing about us is we have access to the most vulnerable communities across the world. In many instances, we are part of that community. We know their culture, their nuances and deliver what is needed”

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Muslim Aid also emphasised the need to ensure the dignity of girls and women, especially when dealing with issues as sensitive as their mental health, as part of their landmark ‘Women are not a target, period.” campaign.

Khalid urged MPs in the room to: "Please use your influence and press for a ceasefire. None of us want to be on the wrong side of history."

Chair of the board of trustees of Muslim Aid Mustafa Faruqi said: “We’re grateful to Anum Qaisar MP for giving us and other charities the opportunity to describe the challenges we’re facing in delivering urgently needed aid to the people of Gaza.

One member of the panel described that even dates were being prevented from entering Gaza on the spurious grounds that the seeds could be used as stone weapons.

Parliament needs to use its influence to end the conflict with an immediate ceasefire so that life-saving aid can be delivered especially with the holy month of Ramadan almost upon us.”

Muhammad Abul Kalam, Head of Income Generation at Muslim Aid said: “Wednesday evening was symbolic of Muslim Aid’s commitment to Serving Humanity and our core ethos of ihsan — excellence — in ensuring we go above and beyond in everything we do.

Muslim Aid is the second oldest Muslim charity in the UK and has built its reputation, knowledge and expertise over the decades. As the team stood in the House of Commons advocating for a lasting and permanent ceasefire, we saw how we once again leveraged our authority as a force for good in the name of our most Merciful Lord, the Almighty Allah.

The tragedy of Gaza is being live-streamed before our eyes and is etched into the memory of our subconscious mind. We must do more. Last night was just one of the many ways Muslim Aid has been collaborating with governments and other organisations inside and outside of Gaza.

Aid is at the border in its abundance, but it is not allowed in. As we heard from all the speakers, what is happening in Gaza can easily be prevented if those in power lift the inhumane conditions.

Muslim Aid will continue to advocate for a ceasefire and reaffirms its commitment to Serving Humanity, regardless of age, race and religion as our faith stipulates.

End the war on the Palestinian people now.”

Muslim Aid has been operating in Gaza since 2006 and has Served Humanity during all of the major conflicts. Muslim Aid has also impacted Gaza with long-term projects such as livelihood, healthcare, education, psychosocial support and, supporting female-headed households.

(Photo credits: Rooful Ali)