Protest in Diyarbakır condemns Gaza genocide and calls for justice

The Foundation underlines that the Israeli actions constitute a "genocide" and have resulted in the deaths of at least 40,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians including women and children. They also report widespread destruction of infrastructure including mosques, churches, schools, and hospitals.

Habip Akdoğan, speaking on behalf of the Foundation, called for investigations into Israeli leadership by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Turkish courts for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Foundation also urged for a halt to trade with Israel and the immediate opening of the Rafah Border Crossing to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

"The suffering of our Palestinian brothers and sisters cannot be ignored any longer. It is our moral duty to stand up against injustice and oppression," he declared, his voice echoing through the crowd gathered at the mosque.

Citing verses from the Quran, Akdoğan invoked a call to action for global awareness and solidarity in the face of oppression. "We must heed the cries of the oppressed and speak out against the tyranny of the oppressors. Our silence only serves to perpetuate their suffering," he passionately proclaimed.

The statement delivered by Akdoğan not only condemned the alleged massacre of at least 40,000 Palestinians over the past eight months but also emphasized the urgent need for accountability. "We demand justice for the innocent lives lost and the countless families torn apart by senseless violence," Akdoğan declared.

He urged Turkish judicial authorities to initiate comprehensive investigations into the alleged crimes of genocide and human rights violations perpetrated by the Zionist regime. "The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be held accountable for their actions. We will not rest until justice is served," he asserted.

Against the backdrop of geopolitical complexities, Akdoğan articulated a vision for a just and peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. "We must end the cycle of violence and work towards a future where all people can live in peace and dignity," he stated emphatically, his gaze unwavering.

He decried the complicity of imperialist powers, notably the United States, and called for an end to the Zionist occupation regime as a prerequisite for regional stability. "The Palestinian people have suffered for far too long under the yoke of oppression. It is time for the international community to take a stand and support their quest for freedom," he urged, his words carrying a sense of urgency.

A key aspect of the protest was the urgent appeal for humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. "We cannot stand idly by while innocent lives are lost and communities are destroyed," Akdoğan implored.

He underscored the imperative of opening the Rafah Border Crossing in Gaza to facilitate the unhindered flow of aid and supplies. "The humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands immediate action. We must ensure that essential supplies reach those in need without delay," he asserted.

In a testament to the power of collective action, the protest in Diyarbakır underscored the global solidarity and support for the Palestinian cause. "From Diyarbakır to New York, from Istanbul to London, people of conscience are standing up for justice and human rights," Akdoğan proclaimed.

He expressed gratitude for the unwavering commitment of university students worldwide and reiterated the foundation's steadfast support for the Palestinian people. "Together, we will continue to raise our voices until justice is served and freedom is achieved," he declared, his words igniting a sense of hope among the demonstrators.

The peaceful demonstration in Diyarbakır served as a poignant reminder of the enduring quest for justice and dignity in the face of adversity. "Today, we stand united in our determination to uphold the principles of justice and human rights," Akdoğan declared.

It symbolized the resilience of grassroots movements in advocating for human rights and emphasized the importance of continued solidarity in advancing the cause of peace and justice in Palestine and beyond. "Our struggle is not over, but together, we will overcome," Akdoğan concluded. (ILKHA)