The BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) movement against the Zionist entity is a global campaign aimed at pressuring the Zionist entity to change its policies towards Palestinians living under occupation. Advocates argue that BDS is a nonviolent means to promote justice, equality, and human rights. However, the movement has been met with significant controversy, with critics accusing it of anti-Semitism and de-legitimization of the Zionist entity. We will explore the BDS movement's objectives, tactics, challenges, its impact on the Zionist-Palestinian conflict, and the wider global political landscape.  

Objectives and Tactics of the BDS Movement:
The primary objective of the BDS movement is to encourage the Zionist entity to comply with international law by ending the occupation of Palestinian territories, granting equal rights to Palestinian citizens of the Zionist entity, and recognizing the rights of Palestinian refugees. To achieve this, BDS utilizes various tactics, including promoting boycotts of Israeli goods, encouraging divestment from companies complicit in the occupation, and calling for sanctions against the Zionist entity. These strategies aim to exert economic and political pressure on Israel to bring about policy changes and promote Palestinian rights.

Controversy Surrounding BDS:
The BDS movement has been a subject of heated debates and controversy. Critics argue that the movement unfairly singles out the Zionist entity for condemnation while ignoring human rights issues in other parts of the world. Accusations of anti-Semitism have also been raised, claiming that BDS campaigns often blur the lines between critique of Zionist policies and anti-Jewish sentiment, leading to a toxic environment on college campuses and beyond. These criticisms have deepened divisions, making a fair evaluation of the movement's merits challenging.

Impact on the Zionist-Palestinian Conflict:
Assessing the actual impact of the BDS movement on the Zionist-Palestinian conflict is complex. Proponents argue that BDS has raised awareness about the occupation and the denial of Palestinian rights, effectively mobilizing grassroots support for Palestinians and increasing international pressure on the Zionist entity to change its policies. However, some critics claim that BDS has had minimal economic impact on the Zionist entity, while others argue that it has contributed to a hardening of positions and hindered dialogue and constructive engagement between Israelis and Palestinians.

Influence on Global Political Landscape:
The BDS movement has not only affected the Zionist-Palestinian conflict but has also sparked significant discussions and actions within the global political landscape. Several prominent figures, including academics, artists, and even some government entities, have endorsed or embraced components of the BDS movement. This has prompted counter-movements and legislation seeking to criminalize BDS activities in certain countries. Consequently, the BDS movement has become an integral part of broader debates on human rights, free speech, and the Palestinian cause, challenging long-standing narratives and positions.

Challenges and Future Prospects:
The BDS movement faces several challenges, including maintaining a unified message, addressing accusations of anti-Semitism, and effectively expanding its influence beyond its traditional support base. Moreover, the movement experiences difficulties in achieving tangible goals, as the Zionist government and its allies have actively opposed BDS efforts through legal means and counter-campaigns. However, the continuing growth of BDS has demonstrated its resilience, shining a spotlight on Palestinian rights, and maintaining international attention on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The BDS movement has emerged as a significant force within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, generating both support and criticism on a global scale. The movement's objectives, tactics, and challenges present a nuanced and complex situation that requires careful analysis and understanding. It is crucial to differentiate legitimate critique of Zionist policies from anti-Semitism while considering the broader context of human rights, international law, and political dynamics in the region. Ultimately, an inclusive and constructive approach remains vital to finding a just and sustainable solution to the Zionist-Palestinian conflict.

A Special Campaign in Ukraine

In the city of Odesa, Ukraine, the Islamic Cultural Center Mosque (Al Masar) hosted a campaign called "Mercy to the Worlds." The goal of this campaign was to introduce the Holy Prophet and the message of Islam to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Despite the ongoing war and economic challenges, hundreds of people attended these events.

First Ceremony for Non-Muslims

The first ceremony, held last Sunday, was specifically for non-Muslims. Dr. Hamza Issa, the Director of the Islamic Cultural Center, gave a lecture introducing the Holy Prophet and the teachings of Islam. Mrs. Tanzila Sergeyevna also spoke about the status and honour of women in Islam. Since many of the attendees were women, their positive response showed the impact of learning about Islam and its Messenger.

Second Ceremony for Muslims

The second ceremony, held on Monday, was dedicated to Muslims in Odessa. It included lectures about the Holy Prophet and ended with distributing gifts to children and a group feeding.

16 Years of Introducing the Messenger (ﷺ)

Dr. Hamza Issa, in an interview, explained that the "Mercy to the Worlds" campaign has been ongoing for 16 years. It started as a response to offensive cartoons of the Holy Prophet in Denmark. Ukrainian Muslims wanted to counter these insults by introducing the true worth and value of the Prophet through educational activities.

Why We Celebrate the Prophet's Birthday

In addition to the campaign, Ukrainian Muslims have been celebrating the Prophet's birthday as a way to introduce his teachings and calling. These celebrations go beyond dining and poetry, focusing on educational seminars, events, and street tours.

Restarting the Campaign

The campaign had to pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. However, this year, the organizers decided to restart the campaign in areas where Muslims live safely. The aim is to strengthen the identity of Muslim children and introduce the Prophet to non-Muslims.

Gifts and Introduction to the Prophet (ﷺ)

The "Mercy to the Worlds 16" campaign began in Odessa, inviting non-Muslims on the first day. Around 400 people attended, and they were provided with food, gifts, and books about the Prophet.

Thirst for Knowledge

The ceremony included a Q&A session where attendees could ask questions about Islam and the Prophet(ﷺ). The organizers also explained the meaning of "mercy to the worlds" and how the Prophet (ﷺ) showed mercy by helping people in need. Many attendees had been affected by the war and appreciated the support. The event concluded with the distribution of food aid to families, emphasizing the importance of peace and love.

Sweden and Denmark have been dealing with a troubling problem in recent years: Quran burnings. Despite being known as progressive and inclusive countries, they have struggled to completely eliminate this offensive and inflammatory act.

The Role of Islamophobia

One possible reason why Koran burnings persist in Sweden and Denmark is the presence of Islamophobic tendencies in Western societies. Since the 9/11 attacks, the media in the United States and the Western world, in general, have shown Islamophobic tendencies.

This Islamophobia has led to a negative portrayal of Muslims as a deviant minority group, especially in Danish media. This negative representation may fuel the belief that burning the Koran is a form of protest or expression of discontent towards Islam.

Societal Factors

There are also societal factors within Sweden and Denmark that unintentionally contribute to the continuation of Koran burnings. Global tensions and differences between the Western and Islamic worlds may make Muslims living in these countries feel the need to defend and emphasize their religious identity.

In the Netherlands, where there is public condemnation of Islam and pressure for assimilation, some individuals may engage in provocative actions like Koran burnings to assert their Muslim and ethnic identity.

The Role of Media and Authorities

The media in Denmark tends to frame Islam in the context of fundamentalism and extremism, perpetuating negative stereotypes and increasing the perception of threat. This negative framing of Islam can lead to increased polarization and hostility towards Muslims, making it difficult to address issues like Koran burnings constructively.

Furthermore, the Danish authorities have embraced a populist party, The Danish Peoples Party, which holds hostile attitudes towards Muslims and Islam. This political alignment adds to the overall hostile environment and hinders comprehensive measures to stop Koran burnings.

The Impact of Islamophobia

The presence of Islamophobic tendencies in Western societies, fueled by negative media representations of Muslims, contributes to the continuation of Koran burnings and poses a significant barrier to finding a solution.

Both Sweden and Denmark face challenges in stopping Koran burnings due to factors such as negative media representation of Muslims, societal tensions, and the embrace of populist parties with hostile attitudes towards Islam. These factors create an environment where expressing discontent towards Islam through Koran burnings is seen as acceptable or even encouraged by certain segments of society.

Addressing the Underlying Factors

To effectively stop Koran burnings in Sweden and Denmark, it is crucial to address the underlying factors contributing to these incidents. This includes combating Islamophobia, promoting positive media representation of Muslims, fostering understanding between different cultures, and encouraging dialogue and respect.

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Sources:

Nielsen, A S. (2021, September 2). Saving racialized children through good schooling: media discourses on racialized children’s schooling as a site for upholding danish whiteness. https://scite.ai/reports/10.1080/20020317.2021.1980275
Horsti, K. (2008, November 1). Overview of Nordic Media Research on Immigration and Ethnic Relations. https://scite.ai/reports/10.1515/nor-2017-0191
Roald, A S. (2013, February 7). Majority versus Minority: ‘Governmentality’ and Muslims in Sweden. https://scite.ai/reports/10.3390/rel4010116

Islam teaches people the importance of humility and love among people. It warns against arrogance and its negative effects, as it goes against the morals taught in the Holy Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH).

The Origin of Arrogance

Arrogance is considered a demonic characteristic and the first sin ever committed. Satan, also known as Iblis, refused to obey God's command to prostrate to Adam. As a result, he was expelled from Paradise.

Allah Almighty said to Satan: "What prevented you from prostrating when I commanded you to do so?' He said: 'I am better than he. You created me from fire, and him You created from clay." Surah: Al-A'raf - Verse: (12)

This story teaches us the consequences of arrogance.

Arrogance in Society

Arrogance can be seen in people who boast about their worldly possessions and deceive others with their words. Such individuals may seem impressive, but they are actually adversaries who cause harm and corruption in society. It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Allah, the Glorified, says: ‘Pride is My cloak and greatness My robe, and whoever competes with Me with regard to either of them, I shall throw him into Hell.’” Sunan Ibn Majah

Prohibition of Arrogance

The Prophet Muhammad strongly forbade arrogance. He emphasized that even the tiniest bit of arrogance in one's heart can prevent them from entering Paradise.

Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The haughty, even with pride equal to a mustard seed in his heart, will not enter Jannah." A man enquired: "What about that a person likes fine dress and fine shoes?" He said: "Allah is Beautiful and likes beauty. Pride amounts to disclaiming truth out of self-esteem, and despising people ." [Muslim].

God loves beauty, but arrogance, suppressing the truth, and looking down upon others are not qualities that please Him.

The Consequences of Arrogance

Arrogance leads to injustice, contempt, and belittlement of others. On the Day of Resurrection, the arrogant will be humiliated and trampled upon by people. It also leads to neglecting prayer and supplication, as those who are arrogant believe they do not need God. However, true believers understand the importance of relying on God in all circumstances.

The Virtue of Humility

The righteous predecessors understood the dangers of arrogance and embraced humility. They knew that humility brings glory and empowerment. For example, Omar bin Al-Khattab, a companion of the Prophet, showed humility by taking turns riding a she-camel with his servant. He did not care about the opinions of others because he believed that Islam had already honored him.

Seeking Refuge in God

To overcome arrogance, one must seek refuge in God. Belief in God encourages us to be kind and humble towards others. The Prophet compared believers to the humiliated earth, emphasizing the importance of humility. Additionally, surrounding ourselves with humble people and spending time with the less fortunate can help us break free from the chains of arrogance.

Politicians and activists have launched a solidarity campaign on social media in support of Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi, the head of the Tunisian Ennahda Movement, who has decided to undertake a hunger strike in solidarity with political detainees in the case of what is known as the "conspiracy against state security." The hashtags "Ghannouchi, you are not alone" and "Rashid Ghannouchi" have trended on social media sites in Tunisia and a number of Arab countries, demonstrating solidarity with Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi.

The Statement of Ennahdha Movement

The Executive Office of the Ennahdha Movement has issued a statement, expressing solidarity with the freedom fighter Mr. Johar Ben Mubarak, leader of the National Salvation Front, who began a hunger strike four days ago. In defense of the demand of all political detainees to be released and to lift the grievances against them, Mr. Rashid Ghannouchi, Speaker of the Legitimate Assembly of People's Representatives and Head of the Ennahda Movement, has undertaken a hunger strike for a period of three consecutive days.

The statement further adds that the Ennahdha Movement expresses its highest appreciation, admiration, and solidarity with the two great struggling brothers, Mr. Rashid Ghannouchi and Mr. Johar Ben Mubarak, and through them with all the struggling brothers who have been behind bars for several months, most of them without hearing or without investigation in fabricated cases whose sole motive is a desire to eliminate opposition political rivals who adhere to legitimacy and to their right and the right of their dear country and their proud people to democracy, freedom, human rights, and citizenship.

The movement's executive office has called on the authority to release all political detainees immediately, holding it responsible for any harm caused to the health and safety of the striking brothers.

The leader of the Ennahda movement, Riad Al-Shuaibi, emphasized that Ghannouchi's decision to join Johar bin Mubarak in the hunger strike represents another phase in the ongoing struggle for freedom, democracy, and the overthrow of the coup.

Daughter of Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi

Somaya Ghannouchi, daughter of Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi, expressed that many may question how someone over the age of eighty can endure the hardships of prison and even embark on a hunger strike, further exhausting his already weary body. However, they fail to understand the indomitable spirit of my father, which is fueled by an unlimited and unrestrained determination to challenge. Despite his gentle and open-minded nature, he possesses an unwavering stubbornness. Once he makes a decision, he acts upon it, regardless of the consequences.

Sumaya also shared on her platform that they attempted to dissuade her father from going on a hunger strike through his lawyer. Although he humbly listened to their advice, he silently persisted in his decision, defying both the prison and its wardens.

She continued by expressing her disbelief that anyone with no history of struggle could expect someone like her father to submit to Ghannouchi, who has experienced imprisonment, exile, and even faced the gallows with unwavering resolve.

In conclusion, she prayed for God's protection over her father, shielding him from all harm and surrounding him with His unwavering glory and watchful eye.

Empty Intestines

Dr. Rafik Abdel Salam, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, acknowledged that Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi transcends the limitations of his physical body and engages in the battle of the "empty intestines" as a defiance against his captors. This act is not driven by personal concerns but rather for the sake of the wounded nation and in solidarity with his fellow political prisoners.

Unwavering Strength

The renowned Palestinian writer, Yasser Al-Zaatarah, expressed his perspective on the current situation, stating that the sheikh is enduring imprisonment with unwavering strength, while the "little dictator" is suppressing his delusions and pursuing imaginary threats. Al-Za'atra further commented that those in power seem to derive satisfaction from witnessing the suffering they have caused.

Al-Za'atra also noted that those who orchestrated the "counter-revolution" series will not be able to rid themselves of the influence of the "Spring" and "political Islam" movements, despite their apparent triumph.

Heroic and Principled Stance

Rafik Amara, a representative of the Tunisian People's Assembly, described Sheikh Ghannouchi's decision to go on strike as a heroic and principled stance in support of the detained Johar Ben Mubarak, who is currently engaged in an open hunger strike.

The head of the International Organization for Supporters of the Prophet, Muhammad Al-Saghir, expressed his views on the arrest of Rashid Ghannouchi, the Speaker of the Tunisian Parliament and founder of the Coexistence and Integration Movement. Al-Saghir highlighted that Ghannouchi's arrest, as well as his advocacy for the theory of participation without defeat, were not accepted by the civilized West or democratic parliaments. This, according to Al-Saghir, confirms the statement made by François Bourges, a Frenchman, that the West refuses to accept Islamic rule in any form, be it the Taliban or Ghannouchi.

Islamic activist Fadel Suleiman emphasized that Sheikh Rashid Ghannouchi, despite being an eighty-year-old, stands tall and courageous in the face of an unjust regime that discriminates against believers without any justifiable cause.

On April 17th, Tunisian security forces arrested Ghannouchi after raiding his residence. Subsequently, the Court of First Instance in Tunis ordered his imprisonment in relation to statements attributed to him that allegedly incited against state security.

Since February of last year, Tunisia has experienced a series of arrests targeting various individuals, including media personalities, activists, judges, businessmen, and politicians. Prominent figures such as Ghannouchi, as well as several Ennahda leaders including Ali Al-Arayedh, Nour Al-Din Al-Behairi, and Sayed Al-Ferjani, have been included in this campaign.

While President Saied has consistently emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary, the opposition has raised concerns that he is utilizing the judicial system to prosecute individuals who oppose his extraordinary measures.