Malé, Maldives – August 15, 2025
On the sidelines of the National Gathering for Palestine held in Malé, Brother Manssor offered a deeply resonant reflection on Gaza’s enduring struggle, spiritual resilience, and historical significance. In a candid conversation, he framed Gaza not only as a humanitarian crisis zone but as a living symbol of resistance: “a thorn” to aggressors and “a fortress” of strength.
A Crisis Long Before October 7
“It’s been almost two years since the genocide started in Gaza,” Manssor began, noting that the suffering predates the current escalation. With over 70 years of occupation, an 85% unemployment rate, and severe restrictions on goods, Gaza has long endured what he described as “mini genocide attempts.” Yet, he emphasized, the people remain unshaken.
“Despite this very bad humanitarian situation, despite what people have been seeing on social media, the people in Gaza remain solid. They remain steadfast.”
Their strength, he said, is rooted in Islamic ideology and a deep sense of spiritual purpose. Gaza, in his words, is the “first barrier to protect the Ummah” from Israel’s expansionist ambitions, which he now openly target neighboring countries including Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.
Gaza as a Historical Stronghold
Mansoor invoked Gaza’s historical legacy as a land of resistance.
“Gaza means strong,” he declared, referencing its etymological roots in the Hebrew or Canaanite word ‘aza, meaning “strength” or “fortress.”
He connected this to Palestine’s storied past: the defeat of the Mongols at Ain Jalut, Salahuddin’s victory over the Crusaders in Jerusalem, the fall of the Byzantine Empire at Yarmouk, and the French retreat from Acre.
“Historically, Palestine was always a land where people would stand as a barrier and defeat other civilizations,” he said. “Right now, the people of Gaza are trying to defeat Zionism.”
Prophecy, Preparation, and Divine Will
Manssor also referenced recent remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the “Greater Israel” plan, suggesting that Israel’s urgency is tied to a prophetic “eight-year curse.” He described the current moment as the second Baithul Akhir—a spiritual turning point in which, he believes, Zionism will be abolished.
“This will happen, with our effort or without. The question is how will we be utilized during these times.”
When asked what’s his message to young people, he asked to reflect on their own roles in this unfolding history, encouraging them to contribute their unique skills and be part of a larger divine narrative.
Faith-Fueled Resilience
Gaza’s strength, Mansoor explained, is not only physical but deeply spiritual and mental. He described a conservative society where even non-practicing families send their children to memorize the Quran, and where years of preparation in mosques, schools, and universities have cultivated a generation ready to endure.
“The sense of peace and tranquility that Allah SWT brought down to the people of Gaza: that’s how you can define it.” Brother Mansoor said when asked about the resilience of the people of Gaza.
Maldives’ Role in Global Solidarity
Brother Mansoor praised the Maldivian effort to organize the National Gathering, calling it “amazing” and vital in amplifying Gaza’s story. His words served as both a tribute and a call to action:
“These are historical times. You are witnessing history and living history. Try to be a part of it.”
As the gathering drew voices from across the Maldives in solidarity with Palestine, Brother Mansoor’s message echoed as a reminder: Gaza is not only a place of suffering: it is a symbol of strength, faith, and the enduring will to resist.
Smile and Let Smile 