04 Apr 2024 | 05:14 PM UTC
Turkiye: Activists to stage Al-Quds Day demonstrations in several cities nationwide April 5
Activists to demonstrate in several cities across Turkiye April 5 to mark Al-Quds Day. Increased security, transport disruptions likely.
Activist groups will demonstrate in cities across Turkiye April 5 as part of the nation's annual International Al-Quds (Jerusalem) Day commemoration. While Al-Quds Day events are typically well attended each year, rallies and marches slated for 2024 will probably draw particularly large crowds as civil society and political organizations seek to show a higher level of support for Palestine against the backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
Organizers have announced the following specific events:
April 5
Adana: Rally at 5 January Square (5 Ocak Meydani) starting at 13:30 followed by march to Inonu Park
Diyarbakir: Rally in front of AZC Plaza starting at 13:15
Igdir: Gathering at Igdir Town Square (Igdir Belediye Meydani) following evening prayers, with subsequent march to unspecified location in the city
Istanbul: Rally at Ataturk Statue near Rihtim Metro Station in Kadikoy District starting at 16:00
Istanbul: Rally at Fatih Mosque starting at 14:00 followed by march to Sarachane Park
Konya: Rally/press statement at Mevlana Square near Selimiye Mosque starting at 13:30
Related gatherings of various sizes are also likely in other cities nationwide. Although most events will probably remain largely peaceful, authorities will undoubtedly deploy increased security in the vicinity of all such demonstrations as a precaution. Localized business and transport disruptions are likely. Isolated security disturbances cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all demonstrations and rallies as a precaution. Allow extra time to reach nearby destinations. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Leave the are at the first sign of any security disturbance.
