Palestine’s Humanitarian Crisis Highlighted at Gaza Solidarity Conference

The Gaza Solidarity Conference held in Kochi on September 25, 2025, brought attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh, the Ambassador of Palestine to India, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that the situation is not a religious conflict but rather a matter of international law and human rights. He stated that the narrative portraying the issue as a clash between Muslims and Jews is misleading and distracts from the core humanitarian concerns.

During his remarks, Mr. Shawesh highlighted the historical context of the Palestinian struggle, noting that the first government formed by the late Yasser Arafat included a Jewish minister. This, he argued, demonstrates that the conflict transcends religious boundaries and is rooted in the occupation of Palestinian land by Zionist forces.

Mr. Shawesh also acknowledged India’s longstanding support for the Palestinian cause. He recalled that India was one of the first countries to formally recognize the State of Palestine and that leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru have consistently backed this movement. “India’s solidarity with Palestine is grounded in a shared history,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of international awareness and support.

Voices of Concern for Gaza’s Children

Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal, the State president of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), also spoke passionately about the plight of children in Gaza. He criticized the humanitarian crisis, asserting that the ongoing violence and blockades have resulted in starvation and deprivation of childhood for many young Palestinians. He condemned the actions in Gaza as a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which mandate humane treatment during armed conflicts, particularly for civilians, including women and children.

Mr. Thangal expressed disappointment with the current Indian government’s stance, arguing that the Palestinian cause, once integral to India’s freedom movement, has been sidelined. “We must not forget the importance of standing with those who suffer,” he urged, calling for renewed commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights.

During the conference, P.K. Kunhalikutty, IUML national secretary, presided over the proceedings, while senior journalist and author Venkitesh Ramakrishnan delivered the keynote address, further elaborating on the complexities of the issue and the need for global engagement.

Global Awareness and the Role of Social Media

Mr. Shawesh highlighted the transformative power of social media in raising awareness about the Palestinian struggle. He encouraged attendees to share their stories and experiences, stating, “Our story is now known across the globe thanks to social media. Do not stop sharing and posting about our struggle.” He expressed a call to action, urging individuals to become advocates for change and to challenge the narratives that portray Palestinians as terrorists, a label often imposed by their opponents.

Drawing from his personal experience as a refugee born and raised in Gaza, Mr. Shawesh articulated a deep understanding of the suffering faced by his people. He reiterated that the root cause of this humanitarian crisis lies in the ongoing Israeli occupation and ethnic cleansing.

The conference served not only as a platform for discussing the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people but also as a reminder of the importance of international solidarity and advocacy. The voices raised at the event echoed a collective call for justice and peace in a region long marked by conflict.

As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, the discussions held at this conference aim to galvanize support and awareness, fostering a global movement towards addressing the humanitarian crisis and advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people.