The event included a march and a press statement, with participants demanding actions that go beyond mere condemnation of the violence.

The protest began with students gathering in front of the University's Central Dining Hall. The diverse group, representing various faculties, marched towards the Faculty of Theology. They carried Palestinian flags and banners with strong messages such as "Don't stay silent, don't be a partner in genocide" and "Fight, jihad, martyrdom." Throughout the march, the crowd passionately chanted slogans in support of Gaza, with their voices rising in unison with cries of takbir.

Furkan Toramantekin, speaking on behalf of the group, delivered a poignant press statement, which was preceded by a recitation from the Holy Quran. In his address, Toramantekin condemned the ongoing violence and genocide in Palestine, particularly highlighting the recent Israeli attack on a refugee camp in Rafah. He pointed out that this area had been designated as a safe zone by Israel just a week prior, yet was the site of a deadly assault on Sunday night that resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians, including those seeking refuge.

"The time for condemnation has passed; it is now time to move beyond heartfelt condemnations and take decisive action across universities, campuses, classrooms, public squares, and wherever our influence can reach," Toramantekin declared. He emphasized the need for continuous and active support for the Palestinian cause, urging everyone to keep this issue alive not just in their hearts and words, but in all aspects of their daily lives.

Toramantekin called on his peers to boycott brands associated with oppression and criticized the lack of support from university academics. He stressed the importance of solidarity, stating, "Every trembling heart, every shouting tongue is in action for Palestine. We must keep this cause alive not only in our hearts and on our tongues but also in our actions, whether on campus today or in our workplaces tomorrow."

He also highlighted the global response to the Palestinian cause, noting, "The whole world and all humanity are united against this oppression. We have given our word, we are neither alone nor isolated. Actions like those of Ireland, Spain, and Norway, which have recognized Palestine as a free state, demonstrate the growing support. We believe that our efforts will inspire parliaments and states worldwide to recognize Palestine as a free state."

Toramantekin did not shy away from calling for significant national actions. He demanded the closure of the Incirlik and Kürecik military bases in Türkiye, which are currently active, and criticized the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its lackluster response. "It is time to move from rhetoric to action," he urged, emphasizing that passive condemnations are no longer sufficient.

He expressed disappointment that academics did not join the protest, remarking, "We wish that all academics at our university would stand firmly with us for the oppressed, but unfortunately, they did not stand with us today. Let us not forget that if we keep silent, we will be next."

The protest concluded with a march to the Rectorate building, where students invited the Rector of Çukurova University to join their cause. The event ended with a solemn prayer for Gaza, reflecting the deep emotional and spiritual commitment of the participants. The students vowed to continue their protests, expressing unwavering confidence in the eventual victory for the Palestinian cause. "Victory is near and victory belongs to the believers. Blessed are those whose conscience is not blinded," Toramantekin concluded, reinforcing the resolve and determination of the group.

This protest at Çukurova University is part of a larger wave of demonstrations and actions taking place across Turkey and around the world, as individuals and groups rally in support of Palestine and call for an end to the violence and oppression in Gaza. (ILKHA)