The Prophet's Lovers Foundation held a Mawlid Al Nabi celebration in Istanbul's Yenikapı district, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

The event, themed "Jihad Leader Hazrat Muhammad," explored different aspects of the Prophet's life and teachings.

Mehmet Göktaş, Honorary President of the Foundation, delivered a keynote speech that intertwined verses from the Quran with historical anecdotes.

Göktaş emphasized the Prophet's mercy towards all creation, citing the Quranic verse directly: "We have sent you only as a mercy for all mankind." However, he also pointed out verses alluding to the concept of jihad, creating a nuanced perspective on the Prophet's leadership.

To illustrate this point, Göktaş recounted a story from the conquest of Mecca. As the Prophet's army approached the city, they encountered a dog nursing its puppies. Fearing the approaching army might harm the animals, the Prophet reportedly instructed his troops, "Be careful that the mouths of these puppies do not leave the mother dog's breasts!" This anecdote, according to Göktaş, exemplified the Prophet's exceptional compassion even during times of conflict.

The speech also delved into contemporary issues. Göktaş expressed his concerns about what he called a "disaster bigger than an earthquake" threatening Istanbul. He urged universities and Istanbul's passionate football fan clubs to take action. Göktaş specifically called upon universities to organize protests and raise awareness. "Istanbul, where the big universities are located, wake up!" he boomed. "Stand up for Gaza!"

Göktaş didn't stop there. He directly addressed the football teams and their fans: "I am addressing Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas from here," he declared. "You have fans around the world. When a referee makes a mistake, the stadiums stand up. Don't you have anything to do for these children? Don't you have a tear, a slogan to shout? O fans, aren't you the ummah of that prophet? We believe that you are his ummah; then do what is necessary!"

The event concluded with a call to action, urging influential figures like university leaders, religious scholars, and academics to raise their voices in solidarity with the Palestinians. (ILKHA)