In a powerful demonstration of solidarity with Palestine, hundreds of thousands of people filled the streets of Istanbul in the early hours of the new year.

Organized by the Türkiye Youth Foundation (TÜGVA), the event, themed “Awakening the World,” called for an end to Israeli aggression and justice for the Palestinian people.

The rally began with morning prayers at the historic Aya Sofya Grand Mosque, where demonstrators gathered under the slogan, “Our destination is Galata Bridge.” From there, a sea of people, many wearing traditional keffiyehs, marched in unity to the iconic Galata Bridge, carrying placards with messages such as “Jerusalem is ours,” “Gaza: Where Children Don’t Grow Up,” and “Jerusalem is under occupation.”

The crowd frequently chanted slogans like “Murderer Israel will be held accountable,” “Martyrs never die,” and “From Istanbul to Al-Aqsa, a thousand salutes to the resistance,” underscoring the shared pain and resilience of those standing with Palestine.

Civil society played a significant role, with around 400 organizations uniting to voice their demand for an end to Israeli atrocities. Participants lit torches as a symbol of hope and resistance, their flames illuminating Istanbul’s commitment to the Palestinian cause.

Upon reaching the Galata Bridge, demonstrators passed through security checkpoints to join the main gathering area. Aid organizations distributed tea, simit, and soup to the attendees, fostering a sense of community and warmth amidst the winter cold. Authorities maintained heightened security to ensure the safety of the peaceful rally.

Speakers and participants emphasized Türkiye’s deep-rooted historical and cultural ties to Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque. The event highlighted the urgent need for greater global awareness and concrete action to stop the suffering in Gaza and the West Bank.

This rally in Istanbul stands as a testament to the unwavering support for Palestine among the Turkish people. As chants and placards echoed across the city, the message was clear: justice for Palestine is a moral imperative. The solidarity shown at this event called on the global community to take a stand against oppression and to advocate for a free and sovereign Palestine. (ILKHA)