Thousands of people took to the streets of Istanbul on Sunday in a significant demonstration against zionism and racism.

The event, which was organized by the Prophet’s Lovers Foundation and the Free Jerusalem Platform, aimed to condemn the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the recent racist provocations against refugees in Türkiye.

Participants gathered in front of the Üsküdar Fevziye Hatun Mosque and proceeded to march towards Üsküdar Square. Along the route, vehicular traffic was halted, and the number of demonstrators grew as bystanders joined the protest. The march concluded with a rally in Üsküdar Square, beginning with a recitation of the Holy Quran by İsmail Sürmeli.

Hamza Türkmen, a board member of Özgür-Der, addressed the crowd, emphasizing unity in the face of attacks on believers. “We are here to condemn the Zionist brutality and racism in Palestine and Gaza, as well as the western world’s racism that fosters these crimes from Argentina to Turkey,” he stated. Türkmen highlighted the historical and ongoing suffering faced by Palestinians, urging for collective action and solidarity in the face of these injustices.

Journalist and writer Mehmet Zülküf Yel spoke on behalf of the Free Jerusalem Platform, highlighting the continuous suffering in Gaza over the past 281 days. He condemned the attacks on hospitals and places of worship and recounted recent atrocities, including the massacre of young people playing soccer and worshippers in prostration. Yel called for a global response to these human rights violations, asserting that it is the fundamental duty of all people to stand against such brutality.

“For 281 days, an atrocity has been going on in Gaza without any measure, without any humanity and without any boundaries,” Yel stated. “All kinds of atrocities are being exhibited; hospitals and places of worship are being targeted. Just a few days ago, young people were massacred while playing soccer on the field. People were brutally slaughtered while prostrating in prayer. This is a genocide and a crime against humanity in Gaza, unprecedented in its brutality.”

Yel also emphasized the collective responsibility to support the oppressed. “When people call us for help where there is oppression and people are oppressed, saying 'O Muslims, where are you?' know that we are all under responsibility. We must rush to aid those oppressed in Gaza with all our means and abilities. On the one hand, the people in Gaza are being tested, on the other hand, Muslims are being tested. All humanity is being tested. One aspect of this test is looking at us. My Lord is testing us. So, instead of saying, 'O Lord, send your Babylonians and save our brothers and sisters,' we need to make actual and verbal prayers together and stand by our brothers and sisters in Gaza."

Addressing recent provocations against refugees, Yel warned against falling into the trap set by racists aiming to undermine unity. “If someone has committed a crime, they are already brought before the law, and these people are tried and imprisoned. Do not fall for the game of racists who are trying to undermine our brotherhood through these and the groups mobilized by foreign foci. We say that we are Muslims, the oppressed are our brothers and sisters, do not play the game of racists. Long live brotherhood and humanity, long live the brotherhood of Islam; down with fascism and racism.”

Mullah Nizamettin Yaçin, representing the Prophet’s Lovers Foundation, spoke about the divine protection of the oppressed and the need for solidarity. “Allah is the owner of the oppressed. It is Allah who protects the oppressed. Allah will protect the oppressed as He has protected them before, but Allah is putting them to the test. We will all be graded to see what humanity and believers will say against the atrocities committed by these oppressors. Our notebooks will be rolled up and presented to our Lord. We see the situation in Gaza on television, these savage barbarians, the murderers of the Prophet, the baby killers, this murderous horde bombs and kills people without listening to anything. This is not a sign of their manhood; this is a sign of cowardice. When cowardly people have the opportunity, they shoot and kill without looking at anyone's tears.”

Yaçin's words echoed the sentiments of many in the crowd, reinforcing the idea that the struggle for justice and human rights transcends borders and communities. The protest highlighted the strong sentiments against the ongoing violence in Gaza and the broader issues of racism and oppression, calling for unity and active support for those suffering.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity in the face of injustice and the collective responsibility to stand against oppression in all its forms. As the march concluded, the participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to continue their advocacy for the oppressed people of Gaza and beyond. (ILKHA)