Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan joined citizens for an iftar dinner at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, marking the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura Day.

In his address, President Erdoğan expressed his pleasure in sharing iftar with the community on this significant day, noting Muharram's importance as a month of grace and abundance for Muslims.

Erdoğan highlighted the profound reverence for Ahl al-Bayt, stressing that their love is a directive from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and a cornerstone of national unity. "As a nation, we believe that our enduring brotherhood is bound by our affection for Ahl al-Bayt," Erdoğan remarked.

The President extended blessings to Prophet Muhammad Mustafa, Ahl al-Bayt, and their companions, commemorating the 1385th anniversary of Imam Hussain's martyrdom at Karbala. He underscored Muharram's dual significance as a month of mercy and mourning, invoking the legacy of Imam Hasan and Imam Hussein in Prophet Muhammad's teachings.

Erdoğan underscored the Prophet's teaching: "“Love Allah because He has treated you with beneficence. Love me because you love Allah, and love my family because you love me," highlighting its enduring relevance in contemporary times. He emphasized Türkiye's centuries-long commitment to honoring Ahl al-Bayt's legacy as pivotal to national unity.

"As a country, we consider Ahl al-Bayt’s love as the binding power of our eternal and brotherly bonds," Erdoğan affirmed. He warned against the dangers of division, stating: "If this unity is compromised, we risk losing our national identity."

The iftar dinner served as a platform for reflection on the spiritual and historical significance of Muharram, reinforcing Türkiye's cultural ties to Ahl al-Bayt and their enduring impact on national unity. (ILKHA)