Massive Pro-Palestine Rally Draws Over Half a Million to Istanbul's Galata Bridge on New Year's Day

Hundreds of Thousands Converge on Galata Bridge

On New Year's Day, January 1, 2026, Istanbul witnessed a massive demonstration as an estimated 520,000 people converged on the historic Galata Bridge to express solidarity with Palestinians and demand an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The rally, one of the largest pro-Palestine gatherings in Turkey since the conflict began, was organized under the umbrella of the Humanity Alliance and the National Will Platform.

Participants, carrying both Turkish and Palestinian flags, marched to the bridge after gathering for dawn prayers at several major mosques across Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Suleymaniye, and Eminonu New Mosque. Despite freezing temperatures, turnout was notably high, with extensive security measures in place.

Organizers and Key Messages

The demonstration was spearheaded by the Turkish Youth Foundation (TUGVA) and involved the participation of more than 400 civil society organizations. The central slogan of the event was 'We won't cower, we won't keep quiet, we won't forget Palestine,' reflecting a strong stance against the violence in Gaza. Banners displayed messages such as 'Justice for Palestine, Conscience for the World' and 'Stop Genocide in Gaza,' with protesters chanting slogans like 'Murderer Israel will be held accountable' and 'Martyrs do not die.'

Speakers at the rally included Bilal Erdogan, Chair of the Ilim Yayma Foundation's Board of Trustees and a member of TUGVA's High Advisory Board, and Ibrahim Besinci, TUGVA Chair. They emphasized the spiritual significance of starting the new year with prayers for Palestine and condemned what they described as ongoing violence. The chair of Galatasaray football club, Dursun Ozbek, also voiced support, framing the conflict as a moral test for the world.

Cultural Expression and Official Presence

The event also incorporated cultural elements, featuring performances by internationally recognized artists such as Lebanese-Swedish singer Maher Zain, Turkish artist Esat Kabakli, and the band Grup Yuruyus. A large banner depicting 'Hanzala,' the iconic figure created by late Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali, was prominently displayed. An art installation titled 'Roots,' symbolizing memory, resilience, and cultural resistance in Gaza, was also unveiled on the bridge.

Ministers, senior officials, and figures listed in the official state protocol joined the demonstrators, underscoring the widespread support for the Palestinian cause within Turkey. The Turkish government has maintained a critical stance toward Israel's actions in Gaza, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan frequently speaking out against the conflict.

Continued Calls for Action

The rally served as a powerful call for international action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Demonstrators prayed for an end to the 'Israeli massacre' and demanded an immediate ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian aid delivery, and an end to food shortages. The event highlighted the deep public sentiment in Turkey regarding the situation in Palestine and reinforced the nation's commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights on the global stage.