Organized concurrently in Diyarbakır and numerous other provinces throughout Türkiye, the "Silent March of Physicians" event serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Gathering at Sheikh Said Square, health workers and representatives from various non-governmental organizations convened before embarking on a solemn procession towards Ulu Mosque. The march culminated in a press statement delivered by Ferhat Furkan Ak, a dedicated 3rd-year dentistry student, at the Ulu Mosque campus in the central Sur district.

In his impassioned address, Ak underscored the protracted nature of the crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the relentless brutality inflicted upon its inhabitants by the Zionist occupation regime. "For 148 days, the world has watched as Gaza bleeds, as innocent lives are lost, as our colleagues are martyred. This silence must end. We cannot stand idly by while such atrocities unfold,” he said.

Drawing attention to the harrowing statistics of casualties and destruction, Ak lamented the loss of 337 health personnel, the arrest of 99 others, and the targeting of 150 health institutions since October 7. He further highlighted the perilous conditions facing hospitals in Gaza, where fuel shortages have resulted in tragic deaths and compromised medical care.

Echoing the call for humanitarian aid access, as mandated by the International Court of Justice, Ak urged for sustained international pressure to ensure the protection and well-being of the besieged population in Gaza. "The world must act now to alleviate the suffering of the innocent. We cannot allow political interests to outweigh human rights," he declared.

Beyond condemning the atrocities, Ak called for concrete action against complicity in oppression. He urged for a unified boycott of companies and entities supporting the occupation, emphasizing the potential impact of collective efforts in effecting meaningful change.

Expressing solidarity with their counterparts in Gaza, who persist in their duties amidst grave risks, the Turkish health workers reaffirmed their commitment to the Silent March. Ak extended a heartfelt invitation to physicians, health workers, and all individuals of conscience to join the noble cause and stand against oppression.

The ongoing Silent March stands as a testament to the unwavering compassion and determination of Turkish health professionals and civil society to advocate for justice and humanitarian principles on behalf of the Palestinian people in Gaza. (ILKHA)