Heusden-Zolder (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On March 22, 2025, Hassan Alzaaneen organized a Palestinian iftar at ‘Ons Huis’ in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium. 380 people from 12 countries, including the mayor and religious leaders, attended. The event promoted Palestinian culture, and unity, and raised funds for Gaza.
On the 22nd of March 2025, an iftar was arranged in the community centre ‘Ons Huis’ in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium. 380 visitors from 12 various countries were non-Muslims. They broke their fast and discussed what was going on with Palestinians in Gaza. Officials mentioned that many people support Palestinians.
How did Hassan Alzaaneen’s Palestinian iftar unite Belgium?
Hassan Alzaaneen wanted to show that Palestinians are part of Belgian society. He also wanted to share a tradition from their homeland. It was a way to celebrate Palestinian culture and build connections with others.
Officials mentioned that many important people came, including the mayor and leaders from different religions. The community supported the event. They mentioned that the iftar was not just about sharing a meal, it also raised money to help people in Gaza. The money will be used to buy food and help children learn.
Alzaaneen explains,
It won’t be possible to help everyone, but we try to organize food or basic education for children.
Hassan Alzaaneen came to Belgium in 2018 after leaving Palestine in 2017. Al Awda, meaning “return” in Arabic, is the name of the organization he established. A United Nations resolution that refugees are entitled to return to their homelands is where the name comes from. Alzaaneen wishes to make people understand and sympathetic towards the Palestinian people’s struggles.
Hassan Alzaaneen wants to create a community for refugees and people who support them in Belgium. He mentioned that the iftar wasn’t just about religion. It was also a chance for people to talk about the problems in Gaza. people from different places and with different beliefs can work together to help those who are suffering.
