A historic call for Gaza will echo from Hagia Sophia: The world is waiting for this message

More than 150 Islamic scholars from over 50 countries have gathered in Istanbul to confront the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and to call for global action against Israel’s ongoing atrocities.

Meeting under the banner “Islamic and Humanitarian Responsibility: Gaza”, the conference was organized by the International Union of Muslim Scholars and the Islamic Scholars Foundation and convened on Istanbul’s Democracy and Freedoms Island on August 22.

Over eight days of deliberations, scholars, intellectuals, and representatives from the Islamic world issued strong appeals for justice, compassion, and solidarity with Gaza. Their collective decisions, described as the voice of the Muslim ummah’s conscience, will be made public on Friday, August 29, following the congregational prayer at Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.

A united response to genocide

The conference served as a global platform to highlight the suffering of Palestinians under what participants repeatedly described as the genocidal policies of the “terrorist state of Israel.”

Workshops brought together scholars, thinkers, and state representatives who exchanged views on the duties of Islamic nations, the role of business leaders in reconstruction, and the responsibility of media professionals in mobilizing public opinion.

Final declaration at Hagia Sophia

The closing declaration will be announced at Hagia Sophia, a symbolic venue chosen to amplify the message to the entire world. The document is expected to outline key recommendations and projects designed to awaken the collective conscience of the Muslim world and reinforce scientific, humanitarian, and spiritual solidarity with Gaza.

Organizers stressed that the declaration would not merely be a statement but a historic appeal — a direct challenge to global inaction and a reminder of the Muslim world’s responsibility toward justice and mercy.

A message the world has been waiting for

By emphasizing unity, shared responsibility, and the urgency of humanitarian action, the declaration is set to become a landmark moment in the global struggle for Gaza.

The conference’s final message will echo from Hagia Sophia to the entire world — a call that participants say the international community has been waiting to hear.