Once again, the whole world, or at least most of it, is repeating the chorus of condemnation of yet another vile Israeli action, this time against international aid workers and peace activists who attempted to break the siege on Gaza. The activists, representing civil societies from over 30 countries, including Muslim countries such as Turkey, Malaysia, Algeria, Kuwait, etc. Were carrying food, medicine and toys. There were about 700 of them, on the board five ships, armed with their faith that justice and peace will eventually prevail over Israel's genocidal wars and draconian sieges.

But even that was just too dangerous a move as far as Israel's 'national security' is concerned. The same pretext that was used time and again to kill innocent Palestinians in cold blood – including the most recent war in Gaza which claimed the lives of over 1,400, mostly civilians and the wounding of over 5,000 – was used again against the activists on board the Freedom Flotilla on May 31. The activists included religious clergy, European MP's, human rights advocates, writers, artists representing many nationalities and all faiths. It was a beautiful assortment of people, of humanity united for an upright principles, the most daring example in years of a large number of people putting their lives on the line for what they believe in.

And putting their lives on the line they did, as Israeli navy ships and air force, in a most brazen act of international piracy, attacked the peaceful ships in a dark night, opening fire with the aim to kill. Many were killed and wounded. Their blood was socked with the powder milk they hauled with them from faraway lands. Within minutes of the Israeli attacks, several were already killed, with bullets to the heads. It was a war on peace activists. In fact, it was a war on peace.

But Israel will not win. Despite the fact that the activists were apprehended, some imprisoned and others deported; and despite the fact that the 10,000 tons of aids were confiscated, Israel cannot win. For injustice may prevail momentarily, but justice will always reclaim its rightful position in the natural order of things.

More activists are already singing up for the next flotilla. Thousands will join. More aid will be stacked, and the determination is stronger than ever to break the wicked siege imposed on a defenseless nation.

It is ironic how Israel's cruelty has served to unify the Muslim Ummah. It is such cruelty that reminds us that there is so much at stake, of our state of fragmentation and disunity.

Muslims the world over are as ever united for the sake of Palestine. Muslims across the world took to streets to express solidarity with their Palestinian brethren. One can only hope that such unity inspires Muslim leaders as well. We all know how strongly the need for unity has been stressed in Al-Qur'an.

“And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah's favour on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make His Signs clear to you: That ye may be guided.” (QS Al-Imran/3 - 103)

The Messenger of Allah SWT also said: “The believers, in their love, mutual kindness, and close ties, are like one body; when any part complains, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever.” (Muslim)

Muslim awakening is a must, especially as solidarity with Palestine has now crossed all sorts of geographic, political and religious boundaries. One needs no emphasize why Palestine is in the heart of Muslim causes. There is not one Muslim who is not aware of this. The challenge is how we turn this awareness into action? Israel has already raised the stakes. How will Muslim respond?

Sour©e: Islamia/BT

Ustadz Abu Bakar Ba’asyir Led A Protest Condemning Israel

Translated and Submitted by a Mujahid