Our Rector Prof. Dr. Nurullah Okumuş: The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Our Responsibilities
In his article written for Kocatepe Newspaper, Rector Prof. Dr. Nurullah Okumuş emphasized that the shameful humanitarian crisis in Gaza can only be changed through collective action. He expressed his hope for a world where justice and peace prevail, stating:
I hope for an end to the tragedy in Gaza, with the belief that a world governed by justice and peace is possible. It should not be forgotten that true global peace will never be achievable unless justice is served in Palestine.
Prof. Dr. Okumuş’s message underlines the importance of solidarity and the moral responsibility of individuals and nations to act for justice, especially in conflict zones like Gaza.
Prof. Dr. Nurullah Okumuş: The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Since October 7, 2023, the world has witnessed a significant tragedy due to Israel’s crimes against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, which have become evident to the global public. This situation is a culmination of the oppression that began on May 14, 1948, with the gathering of the Jewish National Council in Tel Aviv, and has escalated to unprecedented levels of violence not seen in any region or period in history. It is difficult for anyone to predict how much worse the situation can become.
Gaza was already in a dire situation due to years of blockade and conflict. However, the recent attacks have made it untenable. Israel’s heavy bombardments have led to a complete collapse of healthcare services in Gaza. Hospitals and health centers have either been directly attacked or severely damaged. Treating the injured has become impossible, and stocks of medical supplies and medications have been depleted. Ambulances have been targeted, and healthcare workers are unable to perform their duties. In short, this humanitarian crisis has completely paralyzed an already fragile healthcare system in Palestine.
Women and children emerge as the most vulnerable victims of these attacks. Many women and children have lost their lives, been injured, or left homeless due to Israeli bombardments. Schools have ceased to be safe places for children; their education has been disrupted, and they are experiencing psychological trauma. The heroic women of Palestine are making superhuman efforts to ensure the safety of both themselves and their children.
The international community’s silence in the face of a clear genocide that has persisted since 1948 is unacceptable. Fortunately, the vast majority have not remained silent. It is essential for everyone with a conscience to raise a powerful voice against human rights violations in Palestine, transcending religious beliefs, worldviews, and cultural engagements, and to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Israel’s attacks are contrary to human values and international law, and they must be stopped immediately.
The Turkish nation has consistently displayed a determined and clear stance on this issue. Our people must continue to maintain their sensitivity against the attacks of the terrorist state of Israel and persist in boycotting all companies and services that collaborate with Zionism. This is the most concrete demonstration of support for the Palestinian people.
The Turkish nation has always displayed a determined and clear stance on this issue. Our people must continue to maintain their sensitivity against the attacks of the terrorist state of Israel and persist in boycotting all companies and services that collaborate with Zionism. This is the most concrete demonstration of support for the Palestinian people.
It should not be forgotten that the tragedy occurring in Gaza wounds the conscience of not only Palestinians but the entire world. The attacks targeting the most vulnerable groups, such as women and children, are contrary to the fundamental values of humanity. The international community, human rights advocates, and all sensitive individuals must not remain silent in the face of this tragedy; they need to stand with the Palestinian people and make greater efforts to stop Israel’s attacks.
What is happening in Gaza today is in our hands to change the shameful tableau on behalf of humanity. No one should say, “But what can I do…”. When a collective effort like a boycott is undertaken, the sensitivity and support each of us shows can greatly empower the Palestinian people’s resistance and bring their voices to deaf ears and blind eyes.
Out of 193 member states of the UN, 137 currently recognize Palestine. While the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most Western European countries are not among those recognizing Palestine, Spain, Ireland, and Norway have recently announced their intentions to do so. After all that has happened in Gaza, Western countries can no longer remain passive regarding the U.S.’s alleged neutrality. The people of the earth must immediately stop Israel and put an end to the scene of suffering endured by those living in misery in a 3,000 square kilometer area, bombarded day and night from air, land, and sea.
With the hope of a world where justice and peace prevail, I wish for the tragedy in Gaza to come to an end. It should be noted that true global peace will never be possible without achieving justice in Palestine.
Güncelleme Tarihi: 5 Şubat 2025
