On New Year’s Day, tens of thousands of people gathered on Istanbul’s iconic Galata Bridge to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
The protest, organized by the National Will Platform—a coalition of over 300 pro-Palestinian and Islamic groups—saw demonstrators waving Turkish and Palestinian flags and chanting slogans such as “Free Palestine.”
Bilal Erdoğan, son of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, addressed the massive crowd, calling for unwavering support for Gaza while condemning Israel’s actions.
“Muslims in Syria were determined, patient, and they achieved victory. After Syria, Gaza will emerge victoriously from the siege,” he said, referencing the recent ousting of Syrian President Bashar Assad by rebel forces.
Drone footage captured the scale of the protest, with thousands filling the Galata Bridge and spreading into the surrounding Eminönü and Sirkeci districts.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, known for his strong criticism of Israel, has consistently condemned the Israeli offensive in Gaza, aligning with the sentiment expressed by the protesters.
