
Renowned Pakistani architect Yasmeen Lari has rejected the Israeli Wolf Prize, along with its associated cash award of 2.8 crore rupees, in protest against the ongoing atrocities in Gaza.
Lari, Pakistan’s first female architect, expressed her inability to accept the award due to the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza.
She stated, “I may not be able to do much, but I can reject the Israeli award, which came with a one hundred thousand dollar cash prize.”
The Wolf Prize is an esteemed international award recognizing exceptional achievements in science and art. Yasmeen Lari was honored with the award for her distinguished contributions to architecture.
However, she chose to turn down the prestigious prize in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who continue to face widespread oppression at the hands of Israel.
Lari’s rejection of the award is a powerful statement of her unwavering principles and solidarity with the Palestinian people. It sends a message that human values and ethical concerns outweigh material recognition.
In her statement, Lari emphasized the need to acknowledge the suffering of innocent civilians, particularly women and children, in Gaza.
She called on the international community to ensure justice for the Palestinian people and to protect their fundamental rights.
Yasmeen Lari’s decision has been widely praised by people in Pakistan and across the globe, with many recognizing her courage, moral integrity, and humanitarianism.