Islamic non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Diyarbakır organized a significant rally following the funeral prayers for Ismail Haniyeh, the recently assassinated head of Hamas's Political Bureau.

The ceremony, held at the Diyarbakır Grand Mosque after Friday prayers, culminated in a resolute press statement urging strong measures against Israel and the implementation of legislative actions in Turkey.

Ceremonial Observations and Calls for Action

The rally began with a memorial service for Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in a targeted assassination in Tehran. The service was attended by local and regional leaders, activists, and members of the community, reflecting the deep impact of Haniyeh’s death on the broader Muslim world. The event was a focal point for expressing grief, solidarity, and a collective call for action in support of the Palestinian cause.

HÜDA PAR Vice President Yahya Oğraş delivered a stirring speech during the event, emphasizing the historical and spiritual significance of Masjid al-Aqsa and the Palestinian struggle. Oğraş highlighted the long history of conflicts over Jerusalem, noting that the city has been destroyed and occupied multiple times throughout history. He stressed the importance of protecting this holy site, which he described as a symbol of unity for the Muslim Ummah.

Calls for Legislative Action and Government Response

Oğraş directed his address towards the Turkish government, urging immediate action on a law proposal submitted by HÜDA PAR. This proposal seeks to impose stringent sanctions on individuals with dual citizenship who maintain connections with Israel. Oğraş argued that in light of the ongoing violence and assassinations, such measures are crucial for Türkiye to demonstrate its commitment to the Palestinian cause and to address the pressing issues arising from the conflict.

He referenced Ismail Haniyeh’s call for global mobilization on August 3 and urged that this date be marked by widespread public demonstrations and activism. Oğraş emphasized that Turkey should take the lead in enacting the proposed legislation and implementing strategic measures against Israel. His appeal was for the Turkish authorities to act decisively, ensuring that the proposed sanctions are put into effect and that Turkey's stance on the conflict is firmly established.

Critique of Western Responses and Call for Unity

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eşref Araç, Diyarbakır Branch President of the International Doctors Association, also spoke at the rally. Araç was critical of the West’s response to the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as hypocritical and deeply flawed. He expressed profound outrage at the destruction and suffering inflicted upon innocent civilians in Gaza, accusing the West of moral and ethical double standards.

Araç condemned the ambivalence of Western countries towards the genocide occurring in Gaza, asserting that the destruction of homes and the suffering of civilians are reflections of a broader systemic failure of Western values. He argued that the values admired and emulated by many are being exposed as false in the face of such atrocities. His remarks highlighted the disconnect between the proclaimed ideals of the West and the reality of the suffering experienced by Palestinians.

Urgent Appeals for Concrete Measures

The rally concluded with a call for immediate and concrete actions to support the Palestinian cause. Araç urged the Turkish authorities and the international community to take decisive steps, including closing trade ports and transportation networks that facilitate support for Israel. He also called for halting oil and energy transmissions to Israel and implementing the HÜDA PAR law proposal to prevent further violence.

Araç's address was a clear call to action, urging the authorities to not only respond to the current crisis but also to address systemic issues that perpetuate the conflict. He emphasized the need for unity among Islamic societies and the importance of standing in solidarity with the oppressed.

Mobilization for August 3

The rally underscored the significant emotional and political impact of Haniyeh’s assassination on the region. The event highlighted the widespread frustration and urgency felt by many in response to the ongoing violence in Gaza and the perceived inaction of the international community. The call for mass mobilization on August 3, in line with Haniyeh’s final wishes, is intended to galvanize public sentiment and drive collective action in support of the Palestinian cause.

The Diyarbakır rally was a testament to the deep-rooted commitment of the local community to the Palestinian struggle and their demand for a more assertive and principled response from both the Turkish government and the international community. The event served as a platform for voicing collective grievances and rallying support for meaningful change. (ILKHA)