Palestinian officials attending a Mawlid al-Nabi event in Istanbul highlighted the ongoing situation in Gaza and called for unity across the Muslim world.

The event, organized by the Lovers of the Prophet Foundation under the theme “Prophet Muhammad: Leader of Unity and Liberation,” drew large crowds from diverse religious, social, and political backgrounds.

Sheikh Marwan Abu Ras, head of the Jerusalem Commission of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, and Dr. Suhail al-Hindi, a member of Hamas’ Political Bureau, spoke to reporters on the sidelines of the program.

“We feel proud of solidarity with Gaza, Jerusalem, and Al-Aqsa”

Abu Ras said that participating in such large-scale gatherings in Türkiye brings a strong sense of unity and belonging.

“Taking part in these large gatherings that bring together people from all segments of society always makes us proud. We feel as if we are among our own family. We are the children of Gaza and Palestine. When people chant for Gaza and show solidarity with Jerusalem, the prisoners, and Al-Aqsa Mosque, we feel great pride,” he said.

He added that the themes of unity, strength, and liberation serve as a reminder for Muslim societies to return to their core values.

“The enemy is one”

Referring to developments in occupied Palestinian territories, Abu Ras emphasized the need for a unified stance.

“There must be one clear slogan: ‘Our enemy is one.’ The force continuing its actions in Gaza, issuing decisions against prisoners, desecrating Al-Aqsa, and threatening the region is not only an enemy of Palestine, but of all humanity,” he said.

He also addressed Turkish society and leadership, stressing that the threat concerns the entire Muslim world.

“We hope to hold such events in a free Al-Aqsa”

Abu Ras thanked the organizers and expressed hope for future gatherings.

“I have participated in similar events several times, and it is an honor to be part of these gatherings. We pray that one day we will hold such events in the courtyards of a free Al-Aqsa Mosque,” he said.

“The Prophet taught us morality, justice, and humanity”

Dr. Suhail al-Hindi said the message of Prophet Muhammad includes justice and standing with the oppressed.

“The Messenger taught us morality, values, and humanity, and today we continue on the path he set. We remember how he stood by the oppressed and the weak, his migration from Mecca to Medina, and the night journey to Al-Aqsa. This is a clear message that Al-Aqsa is a trust upon every Muslim and every free person,” he said.

He added that Al-Aqsa is currently facing serious threats and restrictions on worship.

“Gaza represents all oppressed people”

Al-Hindi drew attention to the humanitarian impact of the situation in Gaza.

“More than 70,000 civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, have been killed, and thousands have been injured. The world continues to watch,” he said.

He described Gaza as a symbol of global oppression and called for broader support.

“We will not forget Palestine or Al-Aqsa”

In his final remarks, al-Hindi reaffirmed commitment to Palestine and its holy sites.

“We will never forget Palestine, Al-Aqsa, or our sacred values. We will continue on this path until freedom is achieved. By the will of God, we hope to one day celebrate the Prophet’s birth in the courtyards of Al-Aqsa,” he said.

The event concluded with prayers and messages of unity, as participants reiterated calls for solidarity with Gaza and the wider Muslim world.(ILKHA)