Erzurum Technical University (ETU) student communities and clubs organized a march to protest the inhumane oppression carried out by Israel in Gaza and to support ongoing actions worldwide.

The protest march, which started in front of the Gelin Pasha Mosque at ETU, was attended by students, ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Cakmak, academicians, and citizens.

Speaking on behalf of the crowd at the press statement held in front of the Rectorate building, ETU student Emirhan Keles drew attention to the grave human rights violations committed in Gaza: "The reason we are gathered here today is the outward expression of a fire burning within us. It is impossible to ignore the injustices and inequalities happening right before our eyes. We condemn the attacks on groups supporting Palestine worldwide, starting at Columbia University in the state of New York in the United States. These attacks are not just against them but against all of humanity. Instead of silently watching the oppression in Palestine, we must raise our voices even louder and stand against it. We must not forget the pain innocent people are going through; we must stand by them. This is merely a duty of humanity. We show our reaction not only by hiding behind words but also by boycotts, marches, and various actions, mobilizing the world for justice and humanity. We are here to show our support for the people of Palestine. We must fight together for peace and justice. Let us not forget that those who remain silent in the face of oppression become complicit in it. Today, by standing together, we join the struggle to preserve human dignity. We will not remain silent; we will continue to stand together to preserve human dignity. We have gathered here today and will always continue this struggle to leave a more just world for future generations. We will not be afraid to raise our voices and fight for justice, and we will never give up. We will continue to stand together for humanity and for justice, because justice may be delayed, but it can never be denied."

After the press statement, prayers were offered for those who lost their lives in Gaza.

Speaking to TRT Haber after the program, Rector Cakmak said, "The oppression by Israel has been continuing in Gaza for over 7 months. Reactions to this situation are increasing worldwide. As ETU, we came together in the protest march organized by our students to support students and academicians who are victims of injustice and oppression, extending from the United States to other countries."

Corporate Communication Directorate, March 5, 2024