Muslim scholars announce Aug 28 as global day of fasting in solidarity with Gaza

Hundreds of Muslim scholars from across the world gathered in Istanbul to participate in an international summit on Gaza, aimed at intensifying advocacy for Palestinians and mobilising Muslim countries to pressure the global community into halting Israel’s military offensive.

The summit, titled “Islamic and Humanitarian Responsibility: Gaza,” opened on August 22 at the historic Eyup Sultan Mosque. More than 150 scholars representing 50 Muslim countries attended the conference.

During the opening session, the scholars urged Muslims worldwide to observe a day of fasting on August 28 as a gesture of solidarity with Palestinians enduring relentless Israeli attacks.

The organisers condemned “Greater Israel” project, warning that it threatens the existence of Muslim majority nations, including Palestine, Egypt, and Jordan.

They accused Israel’s government of committing “terrorist” acts with impunity for over 22 months, subjecting Gaza to a crippling blockade, indiscriminate airstrikes, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including mosques and churches.

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The participants also denounced the United States for supplying weapons and providing diplomatic cover for Israel’s military campaign, while criticising certain Arab states for openly collaborating with 'enemy.'

At the same time, the scholars praised global pro-Palestinian movements for raising their voices against what they called “Israeli genocide” and for pressuring governments to act.

The week-long summit, which will run until August 29, is expected to conclude with a set of comprehensive objectives, including:

• Mobilising Muslims worldwide to advocate for Gaza and demand an end to Israel’s military campaign.
• Forming alliances against Nazism, Zionism, and all forms of racism.
• Establishing mechanisms to prosecute perpetrators of crimes against humanity, modeled on Hilf al-Fudul (the Pact of the Virtuous).
• Meeting heads of state to advocate for Gaza, issuing a joint declaration with humanitarian organisations and parliamentarians, and establishing a permanent institution to ensure the full implementation of these commitments.

The summit reaffirmed full support for Palestinians in Gaza, stressing their right to self-determination and pledging to continue efforts until justice and peace are achieved.