Justice and sports come together at Palestine Day events in Konya
A Palestine Day program with the participation of international jurists and athletes was held in Konya, the 2026 Youth Capital of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
In Konya, declared the 2026 Youth Capital of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, a comprehensive Palestine Day program was organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, and ICYF.
Palestine Day Program in Konya
Konya, selected as the 2026 Youth Capital by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, hosted a significant gathering dedicated to Palestine. The events, which began at the Selçuklu Congress Center, were brought to life through the joint cooperation of institutions.
Gaza Tribunal Sessions
As part of the day's initial program, international jurists, the Gaza Tribunal delegation, and Palestinian witnesses came together. The situation in Gaza was addressed in the context of international law, the protection of civilians, and human rights.
International Law and Genocide Documentation
Gaza Tribunal President Prof. Richard Falk stated that official justice operates slowly and drew attention to the role of the international tribunal. ICYF President Taha Ayhan emphasized that the independent tribunal has turned genocide into a legal decision.
Palestine Youth Forum
The Palestine Youth Forum was held with participants from various countries. Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak, Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan, and local protocol members attended the forum to deliver messages of support.
When Legends Speak Panel
Well-known figures of the sports world, Taha Akgül, Harun Erdenay, and Şahika Ercümen, took part as speakers in the panel. The unifying power of sports and issues of solidarity for Palestine were discussed during the panel.
Friendship Match and Commemoration Event
TÜMOSAN Konyaspor and the Palestine National Football Team faced each other in a friendship match. In the match that ended in a 2-2 draw, play was stopped at the 10th minute and 14th second to commemorate athletes who lost their lives, and spectators threw toys onto the pitch.