Turkish activists in Istanbul have been holding a sit-in protest at the Port of Haydarpasa for more than 75 days as part of their protest against the Turkish government’s suspension order for an aid vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Mavi Marmara Freedom and Solidarity Association is already making a bold, if futile, threat to hold the Turkish authorities hostage until the vessel, The Conscience, and its caravan are allowed to set sail with the humanitarian supplies.

Protest Over Blocked Humanitarian Aid

The protest began after Turkish port officials did not permit the vessel bringing the aid to dock, meaning both the activists and the crew were barred from entering. In this regard, Behesti Ismail Songur, head of the association, noted that the decision is unprecedented and politically oriented. He described the blockade as “a disgrace in the country’s maritime history,” criticising the Ministry of Transport for what he defines as an arbitrary move without a grounding in justice.

Despite numerous objections filed by the association with legal appeals, Turkish authorities have not made any response or provided an apparent reason for denying access to the ship.

Public Pressure on the Turkish Government

The decision to prohibit The Conscience from sailing has fueled demands in Turkey for further action against Israel, which has carried out military operations in Gaza and killed more than 43,000 Palestinians since the beginning of October 2023. The demonstrators were not only calling for the continued humanitarian shipment but also asking the Turkish government to cut indirect trade with Israel via third countries.

There’s hypocrisy in the government’s stance, says Songur, since goods can still travel into Israel via indirect routes while the government has officially barred its importation. The activists insist that Turkey’s present policies are contradictory to the establishment’s self-proclaimed commitment to Palestinian rights.

Protest Turns Into a Solidarity Movement

In a desperate attempt to draw the world’s attention to their cause, Songur and several volunteers chained themselves to the harbour gates in early September, echoing the harsh blockades imposed on Gaza. Ever since, the protest mushroomed, and volunteers set up a makeshift camp at the port. The place now hosts a community kitchen, sleeping quarters, and banners calling for justice and solidarity with Gaza.

Although police and port security have closely scrutinised the protest, it has remained peaceful. Many of the protesters, undeterred by the bad weather and vagueness of legal questions, continue to hold nightly campfire vigils, sharing food and stories of resistance.

Historical Resonance: Memories of the 2010 Flotilla Incident

The current protest at Port of Haydarpasa is akin to the 2010 Gaza flotilla incident where Israeli forces stormed Mavi Marmara, another aid ship, killing 10 Turkish activists in the process and severely straining the tide of Turkey-Israel relations. The activists term the repeating history of the current blockade of The Conscience as really focusing on the continuing tension between the humanitarian effort and the political decision.

Kubilay Karadeniz, the association’s spokesman, was critical of the government: “We haven’t been given a reason why our ship is being blocked despite having all permissions issued.”

Various Voices, United in Purpose

From over 50 countries, activists and volunteers are approaching the sit-in to show solidarity. Many express disappointment in Turkey’s decision as this violates Turkey’s long-held history of being supportive of Palestine.

“Turkey’s blocking of The Conscience is a stain on our national reputation,” said Songur. Volunteers like 28-year-old AI expert Gulsah also reflect this sentiment: “How can they block access to a ship meant for humanitarian aid? This protest is my way of standing up for what’s right.”

This is a struggle for justice. We can’t turn away our eyes from Gaza, and we have to stand the pressure until the change occurs,” said Yagmur, 22, a volunteer.

Appeal for Transparency and Account Ability

Protesters demand accountability from the Turkish government and clarifications on the blockade by officials. The extended detention has also sparked maritime policy concerns, as activists have charged that the government is indirectly facilitating trade with Israel despite its official embargo.

Hope and determination in uncertainty

Despite everything, the protesters show no signs of weakness. Many, like 65-year-old Hasan Irkilmez, believe that their cause is not for Gaza but against injustice. “We must hold our government accountable,” he said. “If another government had made this decision, there would be outrage. We can’t let political loyalty close our eyes to what’s right.

The rally continues to call attention to the plight of Palestinians and the moral questions surrounding Turkey’s foreign policy. Volunteers outside the harbour are also convinced that nothing can stop their persistence from bringing change. “It’s hard to watch what’s happening in Gaza and go about life as usual,” said Gulsah. “Being here is my way of making a difference.”

The protest shows no signs of slowing down, as activists remain committed to their cause. They hope that their efforts will eventually break the blockade and allow The Conscience to complete its mission.