An international panel examining Saladin Ayyubi’s legacy, the struggle over Jerusalem and the ongoing crisis in Gaza has begun in southeastern Türkiye’s Şanlıurfa province, bringing together scholars, religious figures and civil society representatives to discuss the defense of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the future of Palestine.

Organized by the Free Cause Party (HÜDA PAR) to mark the anniversary of the conquest of Jerusalem, the panel, titled “Saladin’s Jerusalem,” opened at the Haliliye Municipality Youth and Culture Center Conference Hall.

HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu attended the event alongside academics, researchers, Islamic scholars, opinion leaders and representatives of civil society organizations from Türkiye and abroad.

The program focuses on the life and leadership of Saladin Ayyubi, whose liberation of Jerusalem in 1187 remains a significant historical symbol for Muslims, while examining the current situation in occupied Jerusalem, the status of Al-Aqsa Mosque and Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.

The event began with a Quranic recitation by Imam Mehmet Hayati Baybostancı, followed by a welcoming address from HÜDA PAR Deputy Chairman İshak Sağlam.

The panel sessions are being moderated by Süleyman Kızılçınar, chairman of the Free Jerusalem Platform, with speakers addressing historical, political, educational and religious dimensions of the Palestinian question.

Professor and author Ahmet Ağırakça is scheduled to deliver a presentation titled “Saladin’s Justice in Jerusalem and the International System’s Gaza Test,” examining Saladin’s approach to justice alongside questions surrounding the international community’s response to the suffering in Gaza.

Azzam El-Eyyubi, secretary-general of the Justice and Democracy Forum, will discuss the role of education and youth in shaping future generations under the title “Building a Generation of Liberators: A Model for Education, Youth, and Raising Exemplary Personalities.”

His presentation will focus on education, youth development and the cultivation of exemplary leaders capable of contributing to the liberation of occupied lands and the defense of Muslim communities.

Dr. Mervan Ebu Asım, chairman of the Gaza Scholars Association, will address “The Status of Al-Aqsa Mosque and Interventions Targeting Jerusalem’s Demographic Structure,” examining developments affecting one of Islam’s holiest sites and concerns over changes to the demographic character of Jerusalem.

The final presentation, by Prof. Dr. Ziya Polat of the History Department at Mardin Artuklu University’s Faculty of Literature, will explore “Saladin’s Personal Morality, Asceticism, Generosity, and Leadership Qualities,” highlighting the personal virtues and principles associated with the renowned Muslim leader.

By bringing Saladin’s legacy into dialogue with the current realities facing Palestinians, the panel seeks to highlight the enduring religious, historical and moral significance of Jerusalem for Muslims and the importance of solidarity with Palestinians confronting occupation and violence.

The gathering also provides a platform for scholars and community representatives to discuss the protection of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the situation in Gaza and the responsibilities of Muslim societies toward the Palestinian people. (ILKHA)