More than 35 thousand innocent people have lost their lives so far in the genocide that has been going on in Gaza since October 7.

Civilians, especially children and women, have been targeted in Israel's brutal attacks and this atrocity is still continuing. Gazans living under bombardment are deprived of humanitarian aid; hospitals, places of worship, civilian settlements and convoys are mercilessly targeted.

Conscientious societies, who see the genocide being exhibited in front of the eyes of the whole world as the common pain of humanity, stand by Palestine against this cruelty. However, unfortunately, in some countries that see themselves as the cradle of "human rights and democracy", every voice raised against the genocide is suppressed.

In the United States, especially Harvard, Columbia, Yale and New York Universities try to prevent protests calling for a ceasefire. Not only that, they also try to silence students who raise the common voice of human dignity with threats and pressure.

This attitude of those who monopolize the concepts of "democracy and freedom of expression" and hold them like a "sword of Damocles" over other countries when it comes to Gaza and Palestine clearly reveals the truth.

Let us not forget that to remain silent on genocide is to be a partner in the crime. What is happening in Gaza today is the common pain and responsibility of humanity. To remain silent about this genocide is to approve it and to be a partner!

As Istanbul University, we strongly condemn those who stand by the genocide and against the innocent.

We know that every genocide that is forgotten and not seen is repeated.

For this reason, raising our voices against the atrocities and appealing to the common conscience of humanity is our primary duty these days.

ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY SENATE