Pakistan’s Dr. Yasmeen Lari Declines Israeli Award Over Gaza War

Pakistani architect and humanitarian Dr. Yasmeen Lari has declined an Israeli award, citing the ongoing Gaza War as the reason for her refusal. Lari, widely recognized for her eco-friendly and disaster-resilient designs, stated that accepting the award would be against her principles while Palestinians endure continuous suffering.

The Wolf Prize 2025, announced by Israel since 1978 to honor excellence in science and the arts, has been accepted by some of the world’s top innovators. However, Lari chose to reject it, emphasizing that she could not accept an accolade from a country involved in Gaza’s devastation.

Her decision comes as Israeli airstrikes continue to cause large-scale destruction, with thousands of Palestinian casualties, including women and children. The crisis has left homes, hospitals, and schools in ruins, further worsening the humanitarian crisis.

Lari, who received the RIBA Royal Gold Medal in 2023, is known for championing sustainable architecture and providing low-cost housing for marginalized communities. Speaking to Arab News, she described her decision as a symbolic act of solidarity with the Palestinian people. “I cannot accept this award while Gaza is under attack,” she said, underscoring her commitment to humanitarian values.

Her stance aligns with a growing wave of global protests and cultural boycotts as artists and intellectuals refuse honors linked to Israel in light of the ongoing Gaza War.