After an incredible 1,000-kilometre journey from Melbourne to Sydney spanning one month, Azeez Nabulsi concluded his inspiring Gaza Endurance Run at the steps of the Sydney Opera House in Sydney on Saturday 30 November 2024 raising vital awareness and funds for humanitarian relief in Gaza, where millions face unimaginable hardships on a daily basis.
On day 30, Azeez ran to Lakemba Mosque before heading to the Opera House, where family, friends, and supporters eagerly awaited.
As Azeez ran to the finish line marked by a red ribbon near the steps of the Sydney Opera House, someone waved a keffiyeh. He embraced his parents as supporters said “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great).
It was an emotional moment as Azeez thanked everyone who supported him, including those who sent food all along his route.
“I’m not here without Allah’s permission,” Azeez said. “He gave the strength to my legs to move. He is the One that gave the means for the people who donated at home to give. We did nothing. As we said when we first started, we are holding up a plate and everyone is putting food in it and Insha Allah we can try and help some people overseas with the funds but it’s the effort that counts, the results are with Allah.”
The campaign supported by Islamic Council of Victoria, MCCA and Human Appeal Australia (HAA) has surpassed its original goal of $30,000, raising $46,441 so far, with a new target of $50,000. Donations remain open through Human Appeal Australia.
Azeez was warmly welcomed after the end of his run in Sydney on Sunday 1 December at the Sydney leg of the HAA Divine Legacy Conference Tour at the Highline Venue in Bankstown by thousands of supporters.
Azeez, a young Palestinian-Bosnian apprentice electrician, runner, and advocate, has documented his journey through daily vlogs on @gazaendurance.
Starting from the Minaret Islamic College in Melbourne, the route took him through Victoria’s lush Gippsland region and along the breathtaking southern New South Wales coastline.
Along the way, Azeez encountered an outpouring of support from Australians of all walks of life, including First Nations elders, truck drivers, farmers, and local residents.
From home-cooked meals in Traralgon to roadside cheers in Moruya, the kindness and solidarity displayed reaffirmed the values of compassion and fairness.
Azeez’s journey was inspired by the resilience of the Palestinian people, who endure daily struggles with courage and strength.
He acknowledged the stark contrast between his run and their reality, where access to basic needs is often unattainable.
Over the past month, Azeez covered a distance equivalent to crossing Gaza’s length 24 times, each kilometre dedicated to the lives lost, families displaced, and the enduring hope for a peaceful future.
As the journey concluded, Azeez reminded everyone of the power of collective action and solidarity.
His effort served as a call to stand together for Gaza, for peace, and for a world where endurance is no longer a necessity for survival.
For those moved by Azeez’s mission, donations remain open at https://tinyurl.com/gazaendurance
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