Since October 7, Israel’s genocide and massacres on Gaza have been protested worldwide. The "Hand in Hand for the Gaza Strip" march was organized in different cities in Türkiye, led by the Palestine Initiative Platform.

A 3.5-kilometer human chain

In Istanbul, tens of thousands of people marched from Edirnekapı to the Beyazıt Square and then to the Sultanahmet Square. Participants formed a 3.5-kilometer human chain along the route to protest Israel’s inhumane acts and show support for Gaza.

"Palestine represents humanity, truth, and resistance"

Speaking at the Sultanahmet Square, author Yusuf Kaplan stressed that what is taking place right now is not just a Palestinian issue and emphasized that Palestine, who is experiencing one of the bloodiest periods in her history, represents humanity, innocence, truth, and resistance.

"Humanity rebels against the massacre in Gaza"

Kaplan said, "Those who commit these massacres will be buried in the dark pit of history. The genocide on Gaza will be a turning point for the future of humanity. Humanity will say 'stop' to this savagery. As you can see, it has brought humanity to its feet. All of humanity has rebelled and risen against the massacre in Gaza. We call out to the whole world. As long as you cannot stop the killer Israel, you can never preserve your humanity and dignity."

The event was concluded with a mass prayer for Palestine.