London – The Palestinian Forum in Britain announced that it has raised more than 56,000 US dollars in support of the people of Gaza during its tenth annual Iftar, held in London and attended by more than 1,100 participants from across Britain, including members of the Arab community, friends of Palestine, and advocates of justice and human rights.
The Iftar was marked by significant political and civic participation, led by the Independent MP for Islington North, Jeremy Corbyn, alongside representatives of the Green Party of England and Wales, as well as leading figures from major solidarity organisations active in support of Palestinian rights. These included the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the Stop the War Coalition, the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, the Muslim Association of Britain, and the Friends of Al Aqsa.
Families and Students from Gaza in Attendance
The evening was particularly poignant with the presence of families and students from Gaza currently residing in Britain. Speeches reflected on the continuing suffering in the Strip amid ongoing war and siege, emphasising that support must extend beyond financial donations to sustained political, media, and community engagement.
A Message of Solidarity and Responsibility
Speaking on behalf of the Palestinian Forum in Britain, Fares Amer opened his address by extending Ramadan greetings and expressing gratitude to attendees for joining the tenth annual Iftar.
He noted that this marks the third Ramadan since the beginning of the genocide in Gaza, stressing that while participants gathered in safety and fellowship, countless families in Gaza are unable to break their fast in dignity. He called on attendees to keep them in their prayers and to do all they can to alleviate their suffering.
The Forum also expressed its appreciation to its outgoing chairman, Zaher Birawi, for his leadership and dedication, and conveyed best wishes to its new chairman, Adnan Hmidan, as he continues the organisation’s work in support of Palestinian rights in Britain.
Furthermore, the Forum reaffirmed its full solidarity with the solidarity movement leaders facing legal proceedings in connection with their opposition to the war on Gaza, underscoring its commitment to freedom of expression and peaceful advocacy.
Political Contributions: Rejecting Escalation and Strengthening Community Partnership
In his remarks, Jeremy Corbyn reiterated his opposition to military escalation in the region and called for an immediate ceasefire, respect for international law, and accountability for crimes committed against civilians.
He also highlighted the importance of working closely with the Muslim community in Britain and praised the Palestinian Forum in Britain and campaigners across the country for keeping the Palestinian cause firmly on the public and political agenda.
Encouraging Greater Generosity
A participating speaker reflected on the virtues of charity during Ramadan, encouraging attendees to increase their donations in support of Gaza. The appeal was reflected in the evening’s fundraising total, which exceeded 56,000 US dollars.
Organisation and Civic Engagement
The event was chaired by Tarek Othman, while Ashraf Al-Taher addressed the gathering about the “Palestine Votes” campaign, underlining the importance of political participation and strengthening pro-Palestinian representation within Britain’s democratic institutions.
A Spiritual and Social Atmosphere
The Iftar was characterised by a strong spirit of solidarity and faith, including congregational prayers and heartfelt supplications for Gaza and its people. The atmosphere reflected unity, compassion, and collective responsibility.
Concluding the evening, the Palestinian Forum in Britain reaffirmed that support for Gaza will remain a central priority and that community and institutional efforts will continue across all platforms in pursuit of justice, freedom, and dignity for the Palestinian people.
