Thousands March in Istanbul to Support Gaza on New Year's Day

Thousands of Protesters March in Istanbul for Palestine

Thousands of protesters marched through the Turkish city of Istanbul in support of Gaza on January 1, 2026. A similar demonstration took place last year, organized by Bilal Erdogan, the son of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "Today, people are trying to show their support on the first day of the new year," stated Sinem Koseoglu, Al Jazeera's correspondent in Turkey, reporting from Istanbul.

Football clubs called on their fans to join the demonstrations, and Koseoglu emphasized that the issue of Palestine attracts support across the entire political spectrum in the country, from the ruling AK Party to major opposition parties.

Demonstrators gathered before dawn at famous mosques in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Suleymaniye, and the New Mosque in Eminonu, demanding an end to the genocide in Gaza. Many individuals displayed Turkish and Palestinian flags in the courtyards of the mosques to express solidarity.

Despite the frigid conditions, the number of participants was significant. Authorities implemented comprehensive security measures, especially around Sultanahmet Square, where attendees were provided with hot beverages. After morning prayers, protesters marched towards the Galata Bridge, accompanied by ministers, high-ranking officials, and state dignitaries. The official program began at 8:30 AM local time (05:30 GMT).

The rally, titled "We Will Not Stay Silent, We Do Not Forget Palestine," was organized by the Humanitarian Alliance and the National Voice Platform, uniting over 400 civil society organizations.

During the event, prayers for Palestinians continued from a stage set up on the Galata Bridge. An art installation titled "Roots" was unveiled on the bridge to draw attention to what the organizers described as attacks on culture and art in Gaza. Additionally, the event featured performances by renowned artists and musicians.