Contributor: Izzul Fatchu Reza | Editor: Dadi Darmadi
In a world where universities are often seen as secluded ivory towers, the Indonesian International Islamic University (ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ) breaks the mold. On Friday, June 28, 2024, the Association of Social Science Students (ASSIST) at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ held the inaugural Social Lens event, titled "Navigating Diplomatic Roadblocks: Palestine's Struggle for Peace," bringing together scholars, diplomats, and students to discuss peaceful solutions for the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The event, held at Theater A of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ, saw an impressive lineup of speakers, including Dr. Zuhr Al-Suhr, the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia; Dr. Rijal Al-Huda, Deputy Director of Middle East Affairs III, Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and K.H. Ulil Abshar Abdalla from Nahdlatul Ulama. The discussion was moderated by Moch. Faisal Karim, Ph.D., a lecturer at the Faculty of Social Sciences (FOSS).
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Salsabila Syadza, Chairperson of ASSIST, noted the event's timing, which coincided with the Nakba commemoration, underlining the historical significance of the Palestinian struggle.
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Dr. Rijal Al-Huda provided a stark update on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with thousands of casualties and widespread displacement exacerbated by Israel's blockade. His words underscored the urgent need for academic and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
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