Why it matters:
The protests reflect growing public anger in Turkey over Israel’s military aggression on Gaza and its treatment of humanitarian efforts. The scale and coordination of demonstrations across multiple provinces signal strong grassroots solidarity with Palestinians and increasing pressure on regional governments to isolate Israel.
What we're seeing:
Simultaneously, another group of demonstrators marched through Istanbul and rallied outside the Israeli Consulate, voicing their outrage with chants condemning Zionist policies.
In Aydın province, members of the “Palestine Platform” assembled in the city’s central square, waving Turkish and Palestinian flags while condemning Israel’s attacks on Gaza and its obstruction of humanitarian aid convoys.
In Nevşehir, citizens gathered outside the Ali Bey Mosque to protest Israeli assaults on aid flotillas and the reported detention and mistreatment of social activists.
Similar rallies and protests were held in numerous other Turkish cities, including Niğde, Antalya, Adana, Erzurum, İzmir, Ankara, Samsun, Burdur, Trabzon, Artvin, Gümüşhane, Giresun, Bayburt, and Ordu, drawing large crowds.
What he's saying:
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also stated: “The greatest obstacle to peace is Israel’s ongoing attacks, despite President Trump’s clear calls for de-escalation. If the Israeli side truly seeks peace, it must immediately halt its aggression.”
The big picture:
- Turkey has long been a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, with civil society frequently mobilizing in response to Israeli regime's military campaigns.
- The recent escalation in Gaza has triggered international condemnation and calls for humanitarian access.
- Aid convoys and flotillas have faced repeated Isareli blockades and confrontations in recent weeks.
Go deeper:
Hundreds march in pro-Palestinian rally in Turkey
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
