10,000 TO ATTEND RALLY
DPM invites all to take part in protest to condemn US’ embassy move
MORE than 10,000 people are expected to attend Friday’s rally to condemn the United States’ move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the participants would comprise various quarters, ranging from political parties to non-governmental organisations.
“We invite everyone, including political parties — even (those from the) opposition (block) — to attend it. I hope the rally will not be used to air (political) differences. It should be (a platform) to demonstrate solidarity (against the US’ move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital). We have sent out the invitations (to political parties) yesterday afternoon,” he said at the Home Ministry’s monthly gathering here yesterday.
He said the move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital had affected not only the Muslims but followers of Abrahamic religions.
The decision by the US to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and to relocate its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem had triggered an uproar among the world community, especially Muslims.
This has prompted an extraordinary Organisation of Islamic Cooperation summit to be called on Dec 13 in Turkey, which was attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
Zahid said he had brought up the rally during a cabinet meeting to get feedback from Barisan Nasional leaders.
He said they had stated their readiness to take part in it.
Zahid said the rally would begin at noon with a forum at the Putra Mosque before the start of Friday prayers.
“The Friday prayers sermon will touch on the Jerusalem issue. We will hold a solat hajat after Friday prayers.”
He said Najib and Pas president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang would deliver their speeches at the rally.