The Scholars and Madrasas Union (ITTIHADUL ULEMA) is set to host its 10th annual Scholars’ Gathering on October 11–12 in Diyarbakır, under the central theme “Ideological Challenges Targeting Our Islamic Identity.”

The two-day event, to be held at the conference hall of the Saladin Ayyub Mosque, will bring together prominent Islamic scholars, academics, and intellectuals from across Kurdistan, Palestine, Afghanistan, Egypt, Africa, and various regions of Türkiye.

The gathering aims to address the ideological, moral, and social challenges confronting the Muslim world, particularly the erosion of Islamic identity, the family institution, and the ongoing tragedy in Gaza.

Molla Beşir Şimşek

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the event, ITTIHADUL ULEMA Deputy Chairman Molla Beşir Şimşek said this year’s theme was chosen to highlight the growing ideological pressures being imposed on Muslim societies.

“Our Islamic identity is under continuous ideological attack. This year we will focus on how these efforts are targeting our faith, our families, and our moral foundations,” Şimşek said.

“There are deep social crises — families are collapsing, our youth are facing spiritual and moral decay. Scholars must lead the way in addressing these challenges,” he added.

Şimşek noted that the conference would host a wide range of distinguished scholars who will deliver lectures and participate in panel discussions on how to strengthen Islamic identity in the face of Western cultural and ideological encroachments.

Highlighting the responsibilities of the ulema, Şimşek said: “It is the duty of scholars to protect the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). We must speak out, provide guidance, and remind our societies of their responsibilities. Each year, we organize such meetings to fulfill our duty toward our people.”

He expressed hope that the discussions and conclusions from the meeting would reach policymakers, families, and educational circles, encouraging a collective effort to protect moral and spiritual values.

Şimşek confirmed that the situation in Gaza would also be a key part of the discussions, with several Palestinian scholars and personalities invited to share insights on the ongoing Israeli aggression and the broader implications for the Muslim world.

“It would be impossible to hold such a gathering without addressing Gaza,” Şimşek said. “Palestinian scholars will join us to discuss the duties of the Ummah in confronting the ongoing oppression.”

The annual gathering, which has become a significant platform for Islamic intellectual exchange, seeks to strengthen unity among scholars, preserve Islamic values, and develop strategies against ideological and cultural infiltration targeting Muslim societies. (ILKHA)