The march was led by Islamic non-governmental organizations and saw a large turnout of participants who gathered at Diclekent Mosque in the Kayapınar district. After performing the evening prayer, the crowd marched towards the 15 July Martyrs Park, where a press statement was delivered by Ramazan Tekdemir, the Provincial Head of the Confederation of Public Servants Trade Unions (Memur-Sen).

In his powerful address, Tekdemir vehemently condemned the recent heavy bombing of Rafah by Israeli forces, which has resulted in over 100 deaths and hundreds of injuries. He described the attacks as a blatant violation of basic humanitarian values and international law, accusing Israel of systematic and prolonged persecution of the Palestinian people.

“One million four hundred thousand people were left to hunger, thirst, and death at Rafah border crossing,” Tekdemir stated, underscoring the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He elaborated on the brutal nature of the attacks, noting that makeshift tents, which had been established with limited resources, were set ablaze with innocent civilians inside, leading to horrific casualties.

Tekdemir painted a grim picture of the situation, highlighting that the blood-curdling images of children and women, many of whom were burned to death, deeply affected the hearts of all who saw them. He stressed that these attacks were carried out in blatant disregard for the right to life of civilians, international conventions, and basic humanitarian values. Tekdemir noted that the occupying Zionist regime has been systematically persecuting the Palestinian people for nearly a century, and since October 7, it has intensified its violence through great massacres that particularly affect women and children.

“Today, the Zionist regime, which has been continuing its attacks for 234 days without interruption, does not recognize any authority against it, and does not accept any international sanctions,” Tekdemir continued. He accused Israel of committing genocide by violating human rights and international laws, pointing out that the regime has systematically targeted civilians, including women, children, the elderly, and the disabled. He cited numerous war crimes committed by Israel, including the use of chemical weapons and the destruction of hospitals, schools, and places of worship, leaving Gaza in ruins.

Tekdemir also criticized the global community for its silence and inaction in the face of these atrocities. He pointed out that the humanitarian aid provided so far has been insufficient to break the deadly cycle of hunger, malnutrition, and disease in Gaza. “The number of martyrs in Gaza, where a child dies every 10 minutes and a woman dies every two hours, has reached 36,000,” Tekdemir said, emphasizing the scale of the tragedy.

In his speech, Tekdemir called for a strong, unified response from Muslims worldwide. He urged the closure of military bases like Kürecik and Incirlik, which are used by the US-led coalition, a staunch supporter of Israel. He also called for the establishment of regular aid corridors by land, sea, and air to ensure the continuous flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Tekdemir stressed the importance of boycotting companies and countries that support the Zionist regime, viewing boycott as an act of worship. He advocated for expanding the boycott agenda to all aspects of life, pushing for it to be addressed at the state level.

In his concluding remarks, Tekdemir praised the resilience and bravery of the Palestinian resistance, particularly Al Qassam Brigades. “All the immoral circles of the world, with all their institutions, boards, and declarations, approve this disgusting genocide with a silent attitude,” he said. Tekdemir expressed admiration for the resistance fighters who uphold the dignity of the ummah and defend their lands despite immense challenges.

Quoting a verse, Tekdemir said, “Some of the believers have fulfilled their promise to Allah, some of them have given their lives in His way, and some of them are waiting for their deadline; they have never changed their promise.” He called on Muslims to adopt a dignified stance, in accordance with their faith, and to support the mujahideen with all available means and prayers.

The event in Diyarbakır underscored the solidarity of the people with the Palestinian cause, advocating for continuous support and diversified actions to sustain the resistance against Israeli occupation. The march and the subsequent press statement highlighted the deep-rooted commitment of the people of Diyarbakır to stand against oppression and support justice and freedom for the Palestinian people. (ILKHA)