The Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı (Prophet Lovers Foundation) has issued a strongly worded message on the occasion of Ashura, describing the ongoing situation in Gaza as a “contemporary Kerbala” and praising the resistance of Palestinian fighters.

The statement, released on the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his 72 companions, emphasized the enduring significance of Karbala in the collective memory of the Islamic Ummah and called on Muslims to uphold the values of justice, resistance against oppression, and solidarity with the oppressed.

The message was delivered by Ömer Çelik, a member of the foundation’s Board of Directors.

Karbala Remembered as a Defining Moment in Islamic History

In his remarks, Çelik began by praising Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). He noted that the 10th day of Muharram 1447 AH marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his companions in Karbala.

Describing the event as one of the most painful chapters in Islamic history, Çelik said the tragedy left a profound wound in the heart of the Muslim community and symbolized the struggle between truth and oppression.

He stated that the family of the Prophet (Ahl al-Bayt) and their supporters were subjected to severe oppression, and that the memory of Karbala continues to serve as a source of inspiration for Muslims seeking justice and dignity.

Gaza Described as “Today’s Karbala”

The foundation's statement drew a direct comparison between the events of Karbala and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

According to Çelik, the suffering experienced by Palestinians in Gaza reflects a modern-day Karbala, where civilians continue to endure war, destruction, displacement, hunger, and loss of life.

“For more than three years, Gaza has been living a new Karbala every single day,” Çelik said, referring to the continuing conflict and humanitarian conditions in the territory.

He argued that the silence of parts of the international community, as well as the inaction of some Muslim governments and societies, has deepened the suffering of the Palestinian people.

The statement further claimed that the tragedy unfolding in Gaza should remind Muslims of their collective responsibilities toward oppressed communities and victims of injustice.

Call for Resistance Against Oppression

The foundation emphasized that the message of Ashura extends beyond historical remembrance and represents a continuing call to stand against oppression and injustice.

Çelik said that the legacy of Imam Hussein symbolizes steadfastness in the face of tyranny and refusal to submit to oppression, regardless of the cost.

“The consciousness of Ashura is the consciousness of standing against oppression and taking a principled position in defense of truth and justice,” he said.

The statement argued that Muslims should draw lessons from the sacrifices made in Karbala and apply those lessons to contemporary challenges facing the Islamic world.

Reference to Palestinian Resistance

In its message, the foundation also referred to Palestinian resistance figures, including Yahya Sinwar, describing them as examples of what it characterized as a modern continuation of the spirit of resistance associated with Imam Hussein.

According to the statement, individuals who stand against occupation and oppression embody values that have historically been associated with the legacy of Karbala.

The foundation maintained that resistance to injustice remains a central principle within the Islamic tradition and should continue to guide Muslim societies.

Prayer for Gaza and the Muslim World

Concluding the message, the foundation expressed hope that the spirit of Ashura would strengthen solidarity and resistance throughout the Islamic world.

The foundation prayed for relief for the people of Gaza and called for greater unity among Muslims in confronting oppression and supporting those affected by conflict and humanitarian crises.

It also emphasized that the lessons of Karbala continue to resonate across generations, serving as a reminder of the importance of justice, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to truth in the face of adversity. (ILKHA)