Hajj festival amidst profound compassion and prayers for the oppressed

• The following is the Hajj festival message issued by Sri Lanka Muslim Congress Leader Rauff Hakeem

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The Muslims today, observe Eid al-Adha on the final day of the holy Hajj pilgrimage, sharing the blessings of this day to honour the supreme devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his beloved son Ismail (AS), to the command of the Almighty Allah. Making the pilgrimage to Mecca during this hallowed month is one of the important pillars of our faith for those who are able to undertake it. It also embodies the spirit reflection, seeking forgiveness, giving and sharing — fostering a spiritual transformation for those who can participate and for those who are unable to do so. This sacred experience softens our hearts inspiring us to engage in charity and pray earnestly for those in need.

On this occasion, we especially remember the Palestinians and neighboring countries like Lebanon, Yemen, and others enduring airstrikes and starvation, with heartfelt compassion and deep concern. Even on Eid day Israel carried out air strikes on Southern Beirut. Aid distribution continues to be stalled, while the US has vetoed the UN Security Council's draft resolution demanding an "unconditional and permanent" ceasefire in Gaza. In these dark and horrendous times, we earnestly pray to the Almighty to protect the Palestinians and allied nations at war, to sustain them, and to strengthen their resolve in their fight for freedom against oppression. Our prayers and best wishes for peace and unity also extend to the rest of the Muslims worldwide. Eid Mubarak!