This massive demonstration came in response to a poignant call from the late Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Political Bureau of Hamas, who was recently assassinated in Tehran.

The rally was organized by the Palestine Support Platform, with significant backing from various non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The event began after the afternoon prayer, with participants converging at Hagia Sophia Square from various parts of the city. The crowd, united under the banner of "Martyr Haniyeh's Final Call," chanted slogans such as “Hamas salute to Hamas, continue resistance” and “Murderer Israel, murderer America,” signaling their firm support for the Palestinian cause and their opposition to what they describe as the occupation.

In his opening remarks, Ali Yalçın, President of the Palestine Support Platform, emphasized the importance of the gathering. "We have come together in Hagia Sophia Square and in squares across 81 provinces to uphold the cause of Palestine and human dignity," Yalçın said. He praised the resilience of the Palestinian people and their enduring spirit of resistance. "We are here to witness the legacy of Martyr Ismail Haniyeh and to support the resistance. From Istanbul, we send our solidarity to Gaza’s brave fighters and affirm our commitment to the Palestinian cause.”

Talal Nassar, a prominent leader from Hamas, addressed the crowd, reinforcing the message that the Palestinian struggle is far from over despite Haniyeh’s death. "This cause continues on the shoulders of the entire Ummah," Nassar declared. He praised Haniyeh’s contributions and highlighted the ongoing resistance efforts. "His pure blood demonstrated that an Ummah which knows no bounds exists. Though he is gone, we will continue on his path towards the liberation of Palestine. This resistance will endure as long as Islam persists and will rise on the shoulders of the Ummah."

Abdullah Ceylan read a press release on behalf of the Palestine Support Platform. The manifesto addressed misconceptions about Hamas and emphasized its role in the struggle for Palestinian independence. "Hamas is not a terrorist organization but a resistance group fighting for the independence of its homeland and people. Just as the Kuvayı Milliye (National Forces) fought for Turkey's independence, Hamas is fighting for the honor of the Ummah and Palestine. This struggle serves as an inspiration to all who resist oppression and injustice around the world," Ceylan stated.

The event concluded with a heartfelt prayer led by Professor Dr. Halil İbrahim Kutlay. The gathering was marked by a strong sense of unity and purpose, with attendees expressing their unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their resistance against occupation and oppression.

This demonstration reflects the deep-seated solidarity with Palestine and the enduring commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause amidst ongoing genocide and challenges. The rally at Hagia Sophia Square was a testament to the global support for Palestine and the collective call for justice and freedom. (ILKHA)