Afghans protest nationwide against Israeli bombardment in Gaza

Thousands of Afghans staged protests across the country on Friday in response to a nationwide call from the Taliban authorities, condemning Israel’s continued bombardment of Gaza.

Following Friday prayers, large crowds gathered in multiple cities, waving Palestinian flags and burning images of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a show of solidarity with Palestinians.

"We are out in support with Gaza. And to show the world that Gaza is not alone, we are standing with them. Wherever Muslims are oppressed, we strongly defend them and condemn it," said 28-year-old Jannat, who goes by one name, while attending a rally in Kabul.

The protests come amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where nearly 20 months of war have yet to be resolved. Israel resumed military operations in March, ending a six-week ceasefire, as peace negotiations failed to yield progress.

Although Israel has recently eased the complete blockade it imposed on Gaza on March 2, the region continues to face dire humanitarian conditions. The blockade caused critical shortages of food and medicine, prompting the United Nations to warn that "100 percent" of Gazans are at risk of famine.

Taliban Prime Minister Hassan Akhund on Friday denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as a "genocide" and expressing deep concern over the worsening situation for Palestinian civilians.

"The situation continues to deteriorate daily, in blatant violation of fundamental humanitarian principles," he said in a statement.

The Taliban government, which remains unrecognised by the international community, has consistently voiced strong support for the Palestinian cause and frequently condemns Israeli actions in the occupied territories.