Pakistani-American Muslim and women's rights activist Anila Ali has ignited controversy by expressing her support for Israel during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Anila's remarks at a pro-Israel rally have triggered outrage, particularly among Pakistanis who strongly oppose Israel's actions.
Addressing the rally, she said, “I stand before you as a friend of the Jewish people.”
“I am here to affirm to my Abrahamic brothers and sisters that you are not alone,” says Ali. Explaining that Islam prohibits all the horrific acts Hamas committed on October 7, she ends her remarks, by saying, “Am Yisrael Chai.”
Who's Alina Ali?
Alina Ali, a teacher based in Orange County, California, and the founder of the NGO AMMWEC (American Muslim and Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council), emerges as a figure bridging interfaith gaps. Her organization aims to foster understanding through interfaith religious activities.
In a move that further fueled discontent, Ali was part of a delegation that visited Israel in early May 2022.
The delegation, consisting mainly of Pakistani Americans, traveled on U.S. passports but retained strong ties to their home country.
The visit was organized by an American Muslim women's activist group and sponsored by an Israeli organization seeking to strengthen ties with Muslim-majority nations.
Tensions escalated in Pakistan after Israeli President Isaac Herzog publicly disclosed his private meeting with the Pakistani and Pakistani American delegation. The meeting took place at his residence in Jerusalem during the delegates' rare visit, amplifying the controversy surrounding Ali's pro-Israel stance.
