The event featured banners and a gathering of students and teachers who expressed their support for Palestine and raised funds for those affected by the ongoing Israeli genocide.
During the event, attendees donated their pocket money at a stand set up in Siverek Madrasah, reinforcing their commitment to the Palestinian cause. A press statement following the march emphasized the importance of unity in light of the difficulties faced by the Palestinian population.
Madrasa students voiced their determination to continue supporting Palestinians, stating: "We will always stand by them for the freedom of Palestine." The collective statement condemned the displacement policies implemented by Israel, characterizing them as indicators of genocide and crimes against humanity.
Since October 7, 2023, Israeli attacks on civilians in Palestine, particularly in the Gaza Strip, have resulted in what many are calling an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. The Israeli military's air and ground assaults have targeted hospitals, civilian settlements, and places of worship, leading to the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians, primarily women and children. Despite widespread condemnation, the Israeli administration has persisted with its systematic and inhumane tactics, which many view as collective punishment against civilians.
The statement criticized Israel for deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region by ignoring the United Nations Security Council’s immediate ceasefire resolution passed on March 25, 2024. This disregard for international law further exacerbates the suffering of Palestinians, particularly as thousands are forcibly displaced due to ongoing violence.
Reports indicate that Israel has intensified its ground attacks in the Rafah region following extensive airstrikes, aiming to obstruct the delivery of essential humanitarian aid. The blockade has transformed Gaza into what many describe as an open-air prison, where hunger and poverty are weaponized against the civilian population.
The Union's statement underscored the importance of defending the right to peace, particularly in times of war when human rights violations escalate. It condemned Israel’s continued non-compliance with international calls for a ceasefire and the urgent need for humanitarian access to the region.
The group called for immediate action from the UN and other international organizations to restore peace and security, urging the UNSC to address the ongoing conflicts. A safe passage for civilians and the delivery of essential health and food aid were highlighted as critical needs.
In conclusion, the Union of Scholars and Madrasahs reiterated its condemnation of Israel’s systematic attacks on Palestinian civilians, labeling them as genocide and war crimes. They called upon the international community to take decisive action to end the ongoing tragedy in Gaza and to support the establishment of lasting peace in the region. (ILKHA)