Striking call from Özgür Özel to AKP figures regarding Palestine and Israel
CHP Chairman Özgür Özel stated, "If something is to be done by Turkey regarding Palestine, it cannot be achieved just by taking the microphone at iftar tables and condemning Israel; if something is to be done, it must be done by imposing sanctions on Israel. At the very least, it should be done by stopping trade with Israel."
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Özel visited the İzmir Journalists Association as part of his İzmir program and greeted citizens while touring the city on an open-top bus.
Speaking at a public meeting held at Buca Işılay Saygın Square, Özel stated that İzmir is a city of freedoms, adding, "İzmir has never allowed, and will never allow, those who are oppressive, those who interfere with lifestyles, and those who ban concerts and festivals."
Criticizing the AKP government's economic policies, Özel said that many segments of society, especially retirees, are experiencing economic hardship.
CALL TO STOP TRADE WITH ISRAEL
Özel later attended an iftar program held in Konak's Mehtap neighborhood.
In his speech, explaining that they have embraced the Palestinian cause since the past, Özel noted the following:
"The state terrorism that Israel launched in response to the attacks carried out by the Hamas organization against Israel months ago continues without regard for Ramadan. Of course, if something is to be done by Turkey regarding Palestine, it cannot be achieved just by taking the microphone at iftar tables and condemning Israel; if something is to be done, it must be done by imposing sanctions on Israel. At the very least, it should be done by stopping trade with Israel."
Claiming that the government has nevertheless been increasing trade with Israel, Özel stated that trade with the country in question must absolutely be stopped for this oppression to end.
Özgür Özel expressed his hope that everyone, and especially public administrators, would heed the teaching of Prophet Muhammad, "He is not one of us who goes to bed with a full stomach while his neighbor is hungry," and continued as follows:
"I congratulate you on Ramadan once again, hoping for days when all children can smile and their families can look to the future with hope when we reach the holiday. I congratulate you on the holiday in advance. And I urge you all to go to the ballot box on March 31 to fulfill your civic duty regarding the administration of the country and the city, and if you have an objection, to voice your reactions and demands in the voting booths, which are the only channel where you can make your voice heard to the government and politics."