Why it matters:
International Quds Day, established in 1979 by Ruhollah Khomeini, remains a central platform for mobilizing global support for the Palestinian cause and opposition to the Israeli occupation.
The big picture:
The 2026 observance of Quds Day unfolded as tensions in West Asia remain high following recent confrontations involving the U.S. and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Across multiple countries, pro-Palestinian demonstrations highlighted growing public anger toward Israeli policies and reaffirmed support for the resistance front opposing Israeli aggression and U.S. intervention in the region.
What he's saying:
Sheikh Ahmad Yusuf Yashi, the representative of Ibrahim Zakzaky in Bauchi, told the gathering that attempts by Washington and Tel Aviv to weaken the Islamic Republic had failed.
He said the emergence of new leadership after the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, proved that the Islamic Republic cannot be shaken through assassinations or military pressure.
Yashi added that Iran’s retaliatory strikes against the U.S. and Israel signal that the Zionist project is facing its final stages, urging Muslims worldwide to intensify prayers during the final days of the holy month of Ramadan for Iran’s victory.
What they're saying:
Participants at the rally chanted slogans condemning U.S. and Israeli policies while voicing strong backing for the Palestinian struggle and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Chants including “Death to America,” “Death to Israel,” “Freedom for Palestine,” and “We support Iran” echoed through the streets as men, women, and children joined the march.
Key points:
Massive crowds marched through major streets in Bauchi State, Nigeria, carrying Iranian and Palestinian flags.
Demonstrators displayed banners and portraits of prominent resistance figures.
The rally formed part of coordinated International Quds Day demonstrations held worldwide on the last Friday of Ramadan.
Local organizers described the turnout as one of the largest pro-Palestine mobilizations in northern Nigeria in recent years.
Go deeper:
International Quds Day was first proclaimed in 1979 by Ruhollah Khomeini shortly after the victory of the Islamic Revolution. The initiative calls on Muslims and freedom-seeking people worldwide to oppose Israeli occupation and defend Palestinian rights.
Since then, Quds Day rallies have spread across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, serving as a global symbol of resistance against Israeli expansionism and U.S. domination in West Asia while reinforcing support for the Palestinian liberation struggle.
Hossein Vaez
