Thousands of Muslims from across Türkiye and the Islamic world gathered in Diyarbakır’s Nevruz Park on Sunday for a deeply moving Mawlid Al Nabi celebration organized by the Prophet’s Lovers Foundation under the powerful theme: “Resistance Leader Prophet Muhammad.”

The large-scale gathering, attended by prominent Islamic figures, scholars, and international guests, emphasized spiritual devotion to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) alongside firm political and moral solidarity with oppressed Muslims, particularly the people of Gaza enduring Israel's ongoing aggression.

Among the distinguished attendees was Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu, the Chairman of HÜDA PAR, a political party. He was met with a warm reception from the crowd, who cheered enthusiastically as he took the stage. In his speech to ILKHA News Agency, Yapıcıoğlu called upon the Islamic Ummah to unite in the face of oppression, especially under the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad. His impassioned address emphasized the importance of spiritual and political unity, stressing that Islam’s true message is one of resistance against injustice and tyranny.

Yapıcıoğlu began his address by acknowledging the enthusiasm of the people in Diyarbakır, saying: “This year, with great joy, the Mawlid Al Nabi event has been held in Diyarbakır once again. Guests have come here from across the Islamic world to gather around a shared commitment to resist oppression and honor the spirit of Prophet Muhammad.” He highlighted the event’s theme, “Resistance Leader Prophet Muhammad,” noting how Prophet Muhammad’s life exemplified unwavering resistance against those who oppressed the poor and marginalized.

Resistance in Islam: Rejecting Oppression and Tyranny

In his speech, Yapıcıoğlu quoted the influential Bosnian leader, Aliya Izzetbegović, to drive home the theme of resistance: “O surrender, your name is Islam.” He explained that while Islam itself means surrender to the will of Allah, it does not mean submission to anyone or anything other than Allah. He continued, “To enter Islam is to reject all false gods, all forms of oppression, and all tyranny. It means to refuse to accept anyone other than Allah as your sovereign. It is to resist those who oppress, deceive, and exploit.”

Yapıcıoğlu further elaborated on the concept of resistance in Islam, emphasizing that it is embedded deeply in the faith’s very foundation. “In a way, resistance is the spirit that Islam gives to its followers,” he said. “This resistance is not just a military act; it is a moral and spiritual stance. We will never be servants of anyone other than Allah. This is why Gaza, despite its overwhelming hardships, continues to resist. Despite having no weapons, no food, and no access to basic necessities, Gaza is fighting a courageous battle, inspired by the spirit of resistance that Islam embodies.”

Gaza’s Struggle: A Symbol of Resistance and a Test for the Ummah

Yapıcıoğlu spoke passionately about the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, noting their steadfast resistance in the face of Israel’s brutal military operations. “Gaza has been under siege for nearly two decades, yet they continue to resist with determination. They have no weapons to defend themselves against airstrikes, no access to clean water or food, and no way to protect their children. Yet they resist. They embody the spirit of resistance that Islam teaches.”

He remarked that while Gaza has become the “pride of the Ummah,” it also represents a test for the wider Muslim world. “Unfortunately, the Ummah has not responded as it should. With nearly 50 Islamic countries in existence, why do we not see a stronger collective response? Why is Gaza still being massacred, and why are the voices of condemnation not backed by real action?”

A Call for Action and Unity Among Muslims

Despite his frustration, Yapıcıoğlu emphasized that unity remains the key to ending the suffering of Gaza. He stated that the oppression in Gaza will not cease until the Islamic Ummah stands together, transcending political divisions and sectarianism. “We are a community of 2 billion people. If we unite, we have the power to push back against tyranny. The lack of unity is what allows injustice to continue. But if we stand together for justice, for humanity, then we will see a change,” he declared.

Yapıcıoğlu pointed out that despite the overwhelming military support Israel receives from powerful nations like the United States, the strength of the Muslim world, if united, should never be underestimated. “We are not helpless. We must find a way to act, to pressure the international community, and to support our brothers and sisters in Gaza. If we unite, even the Zionist regime will be forced to retreat.”

Islamic Unity: A Path to Salvation and Honor

In his concluding remarks, Yapıcıoğlu emphasized that unity within the Muslim world is not only the key to ending the oppression of Gaza but also the key to achieving spiritual and political salvation. He urged Muslims to come together, not just for Gaza but for the greater cause of justice and humanity.

“We must unite around the example of Prophet Muhammad. He is the unifying leader of the Ummah, transcending ethnic, sectarian, and political differences. If we cling to his Sunnah, we will find honor and strength. The oppression we see today will end. We must never lose hope.”

Yapıcıoğlu concluded with a powerful call to action: “We are all part of the Ummah. We must strive for unity, for peace, and for justice. This is the way to honor the Prophet Muhammad and the way to end the suffering of our people.”

A Unified Call for Justice

The event closed with prayers for the people of Gaza and the Muslim Ummah. As the crowds dispersed, the message of unity, resistance, and hope continued to echo in Diyarbakır, reaffirming the commitment of the Islamic world to stand against injustice and oppression, wherever it may occur. (ILKHA)