As the world witnesses one of the most horrific chapters in modern history unfold in Gaza, with Israeli forces unleashing relentless violence on Palestinian civilians, an alarming development has sparked widespread anger and condemnation across Türkiye.

Linet, an Israeli-origin singer known for openly supporting Israel’s brutal military campaign in Gaza, has announced plans to hold a concert in Istanbul on May 23. This move has ignited a wave of protests, calls for justice, and demands for the concert’s immediate cancellation.

The concert was initially scheduled to take place in Ankara but was canceled in the face of overwhelming public outrage and vocal opposition from activists, civil society groups, and political figures who see Linet’s performance as a direct affront to the pain and suffering endured by Palestinians. Now, by shifting the event to Istanbul, Linet and her supporters appear determined to ignore these calls and normalize support for a regime responsible for countless massacres, forced displacements, and the ongoing siege that has left Gaza in ruins.

Mehmet Eşin, the Istanbul Provincial Chairman of HÜDA PAR, delivered a powerful statement condemning Linet’s planned concert, describing it as an insult to the memories of Palestinian martyrs and a betrayal of the values of justice and solidarity. “While innocent Palestinian men, women, and children are being mercilessly slaughtered under Israeli bombs, this individual—who holds dual citizenship and has served two years in the Israeli military—dares to celebrate her career and profit from the tragedy of our people,” Eşin asserted.

Highlighting the urgent need for legislative action, Eşin reminded that HÜDA PAR submitted a draft law to the Turkish Parliament in December 2023, demanding that Turkish citizenship be revoked from those who serve in the Israeli military or participate in crimes against Palestinians. “Nearly a year and a half has passed, yet this critical bill remains ignored by lawmakers. The continued attempts to host concerts by such figures clearly underscore the necessity of passing this law swiftly,” he added with resolve.

Eşin also drew attention to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s previous statements affirming that Hamas is not a terrorist organization but a legitimate resistance movement defending its homeland from occupation. This official stance starkly contrasts with the rhetoric and actions of Linet, who has publicly labeled Hamas as terrorists while endorsing the Israeli occupation. “Permitting her to perform during such a dark time will wound the souls of all those who have sacrificed their lives for freedom and justice. It is a deep insult to the blood of our martyrs and an attack on the Palestinian cause,” Eşin emphasized.

Calling on Turkish authorities, Eşin urged the Interior Ministry and local governments not to wait for public backlash to force a reaction but to proactively reject applications for such concerts. “Denying permission for these events at the outset is essential. Allowing such performances while Gaza is being bombed and devastated risks isolating the Palestinian struggle and undermines the bond of solidarity between Türkiye and Palestine,” he said.

The planned concert has also provoked a strong response from social media users and political party officials who have united in denouncing any platform that glorifies Israeli aggression and undermines the humanitarian crisis gripping Gaza. The international community continues to watch closely as Turkey navigates this moment of profound moral and political significance.

Until an official cancellation is announced, the eyes of millions remain fixed on Istanbul, urging Türkiye’s government to stand firmly with the oppressed people of Palestine. The call is clear: honor the sacrifice of Palestinian martyrs, uphold the principles of justice, and refuse to provide a stage to those who support genocide and occupation. (ILKHA)