Khawaja Speaks Out Again on Gaza
Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has once again spoken out against Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling the deliberate starvation of civilians a calculated form of oppression rather than an unfortunate byproduct of war.
In an interview with Australian media, Khawaja said what has unfolded in Gaza over the past two years amounts to crimes against humanity. “First children were being killed by bombs, now they are being starved,” he said. Recent Israeli strikes killing over 90 Palestinians in Gaza as famine deaths rise underline the severity of the crisis.
“I Am Not Entering Politics”
Khawaja, who was born in Pakistan and later migrated to Australia, clarified that he has no interest in joining politics. However, he insisted that he would continue to raise his voice for humanitarian causes. “Children, no matter their country or religion, have the most precious lives,” he said. “This kind of inhumane treatment cannot be tolerated.”
He also highlighted his determination to speak out even while still an active cricketer. “I have a lot to say. Whether I’m playing or not, I will continue to speak against injustice,” he declared.
Double Standards in Global Reactions
The 37-year-old cricketer also questioned what he sees as a double standard in the global community’s reaction to conflicts. He drew a comparison between the swift condemnation of Russia after its invasion of Ukraine and the muted response to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“When it came to Ukraine, the world quickly labeled Russia as the villain, because Ukrainian children are white and resemble the Western world,” Khawaja argued. “But when children of a different skin color are dying, the world remains silent. I believe this is driven by race.”
His comments reflect growing frustration among activists and observers who point to disparities in media coverage and international diplomacy depending on the identity of victims.
Concerns Over Aid Disparity
Khawaja further criticized the Australian government for what he described as unequal treatment in aid allocations. He noted that Canberra has provided over 1 billion Australian dollars in assistance to Ukraine, but only 130 million dollars for Gaza.
“This shows how the value of lives is being weighed differently across the world,” he said. “Every child’s life should matter equally.”
According to the United Nations, more than 33,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, with many more facing hunger and displacement. UNICEF has warned that thousands of children are at risk of dying from malnutrition as aid restrictions and blockades continue.
A Cricketer Beyond the Field
Khawaja is widely respected in Australia not only for his cricketing career but also for his willingness to speak on issues of race, identity, and justice. Last year, he made headlines when he attempted to wear shoes with slogans supporting Palestinian children during Test matches, though cricket authorities blocked the gesture.
By again addressing Gaza, Khawaja has reaffirmed his role as one of the few global sports figures openly challenging silence on the issue. His message has resonated among communities that feel their suffering is being overlooked.
Standing With the Oppressed
In closing, Khawaja emphasized that his conscience would not allow him to remain silent. “I may be a cricketer, but I will always stand with the oppressed,” he said. “Speaking for justice is my responsibility as a human being.”
