Hundreds of young activists took to the streets of Dhaka on Friday, converging on Manik Mia Avenue in a powerful demonstration organized by Fridays For Future – Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Youth Synergy Alliance.
The rally, which drew solidarity from over 60 organizations, including Brighters, called for the immediate release of climate and human rights activists detained by Israeli forces, including global icon Greta Thunberg, amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
The protest highlighted the recent interception of the “Global Sumud Flotilla,” a humanitarian aid mission bound for Gaza that was targeted in international waters. Israeli forces boarded the vessels, detaining dozens of activists, including Thunberg, who had joined the effort to deliver essential supplies and draw attention to the blockade. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and banners reading “Free Palestine” and “Release the Flotilla Heroes,” chanting slogans against what they described as a blatant violation of international law.
In a joint statement, the organizing groups demanded the unconditional release of all those arrested, including Thunberg and other members of the flotilla. They also renewed calls to halt what they termed the “ongoing genocide” in Gaza and to recognize the independence of a Palestinian state. “The attack on the flotilla and the arbitrary detention of peaceful activists must be investigated and prosecuted at the International Court of Justice,” the statement read. Additionally, the demonstrators urged an immediate cessation of all military and political funding to Israel from global powers.
Eyewitnesses reported a vibrant yet determined atmosphere, with participants ranging from students to environmental advocates linking the Palestinian struggle to broader issues of climate justice and human rights. “We stand for climate justice, human rights, and global solidarity. The young generation will not remain silent against this injustice,” Fridays For Future Bangladesh declared in an official statement released during the event.
The rally comes amid escalating international tensions over the Gaza conflict, which has drawn widespread condemnation and protests worldwide. Organizers emphasized the intersectionality of their cause, noting that the detention of climate activists like Thunberg underscores the intertwined threats of environmental degradation and geopolitical violence.
As the sun set over Manik Mia Avenue, the crowd dispersed with a renewed pledge to amplify their voices on social media and in future actions. Local authorities monitored the peaceful gathering without incident, but activists vowed to intensify pressure until their demands are met.
This demonstration adds Bangladesh to a growing chorus of global youth movements supporting Palestine, bridging local environmental activism with international solidarity efforts.
