At a Turning Point in History: On One Side, the Celebration of Power; On the Other, the Call of Sacrifice

By Shabu Zaidi

There are moments in history when the images of humanity, power, and conflict stand side by side. On one side are the colors of celebration; on the other are mourning, tears, and stories of sacrifice.

The mourning ceremony held in Iran, attended by delegations from numerous countries, conveyed a powerful message that regional conflicts are no longer confined to one nation—they have become a concern for the entire world. The ongoing violence in Gaza, Palestine, and the wider Middle East has deeply shaken millions of people. The deaths of innocent children, women, and civilians in war have become a profound source of grief for humanity.

History bears witness that whenever oppression reached its peak, voices of resistance also emerged. From the era of Pharaoh and Prophet Moses (peace be upon him), to the story surrounding the birth of Lord Krishna, and later on the plains of Karbala, every age has presented the struggle between truth and falsehood, teaching humanity enduring lessons of courage, justice, and sacrifice.

Even today, the world faces the same question: Will power continue to be used to take the lives of innocent people, or will it be used to protect justice, peace, and humanity? This question seems to have divided the world into two camps—one marked by war and destruction, and the other by the memory and sacrifice of those whom their supporters regard as symbols of resistance against oppression.

In the end, history does not remember those who possessed the greatest weapons. It remembers those who stood for humanity, justice, and truth.