During the session of the metropolitan council, its members from all political parties supported the decision, which aims to strengthen solidarity with the people of Gaza in the face of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Becoming sister cities means establishing a long-term partnership between Istanbul and the Gaza Strip to promote cultural exchanges, solidarity and cooperation in areas such as humanitarian aid, development and social projects.
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Speaking after the vote, Batuhan Ersoy, a council member for the Republican People's Party (CHP), said humanitarian aid goes beyond politics.
“As a CHP group, we see humanitarian aid as a responsibility that goes beyond politics,” Ersoy said. — In 2023, under the leadership of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, the council sent various forms of aid to Gaza, with the support of other political groups. These actions were taken solely out of humanitarian obligation, without political motivation, he added.
Ersoy stressed that Istanbul considers it a moral obligation to support the people of Gaza, describing the council's decision as “an expression of dignity and a call for peace and solidarity.” He added that Istanbul's humanitarian attitude “sets an example for the world.”
