The Deanship of Students’ office at Bethlehem University organized an event in the Auditorium on Thursday, 16 May 2024, to express gratitude to university students worldwide for their unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Following the Palestinian national anthem and a moment of silence, Fr. Dr. Iyad Twal, Executive Vice President of the University, delivered a moving welcome address. He highlighted the significance of solidarity actions happening in universities across the globe.
He also announced a recently approved rescue plan for higher education in the Gaza Strip. This initiative aims to provide space for Gazan students to continue their education as visiting students at Palestinian universities.
Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac, the event’s guest speaker, addressed the hypocrisy of the international community. He pointed out the stark contrast between calls for global peace and human rights, and the silence surrounding the suffering in Palestine. He emphasized that the current situation in Gaza is not a new Nakba, but rather an extension of the ongoing Nakba (catastrophe) and colonial occupation that began 76 years ago.
Dr. Isaac concluded by urging students to maintain unity, uphold their principles, and actively boycott Israel in protest of the ongoing war. He also expressed gratitude to the Republic of South Africa for their efforts to stop the genocide in Gaza through legal channels.
The event featured a performance by the Diyar Group, highlighting the plight of Palestinian children detained in Israeli prisons. Additionally, videos showcasing solidarity activities from universities around the world were presented.
Motasem Abu Ghalyoun, Head of the Student Senate, delivered a message of hope and resilience. He affirmed that justice will prevail, and Gaza will continue to represent Palestinian dignity and pride. On behalf of the student body, he expressed immense gratitude to all students and academics worldwide who stand in solidarity with Palestine. He compared the current global support to the anti-Vietnam War movement of 1968, highlighting the power of collective action in achieving peace.
Student Natal Nofel delivered a message in English, directly addressing students who stand in solidarity with Palestine. She expressed deep appreciation for their support and their continued challenges against authorities who attempt to silence their voices through arrests, beatings, scholarship restrictions, and suspensions.
The event concluded with a tour of student-organized stations featuring posters, slogans calling for an end to the war, and photographs documenting the situation in the Gaza Strip.
