Istanbul forum highlights Palestinian narratives amid Western media bias
Speakers discuss Gaza, Jerusalem, media coverage and historical dimensions of the Palestinian struggle
ISTANBUL, Türkiye (MNTV) – Academics, researchers and rights advocates gathered in Istanbul to discuss Palestine, Gaza, Jerusalem and the role of global media in shaping public understanding of the conflict.
The two-day event at Bogazici University, titled “Cut To The Chase: Truth Beyond Borders,” brought together students and experts who examined the historical roots of the Palestinian issue and international responses to the crisis.
Speaking at the conference, Sami Al-Arian of Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University said the Palestinian issue should not be viewed only through a humanitarian lens, arguing that it represents a wider political and international question.
Al-Arian said the conflict should not be framed as a religious confrontation between Muslims and Jews, but as a dispute involving political ideologies, justice and rights.
He argued that recent events in Gaza have increased global attention toward Palestinian issues, with growing discussions taking place across universities, civil society groups and media platforms.
Palestinian rights advocate Nedaa Al-Abadla, originally from Gaza, shared personal experiences of life under occupation and described the long-term impact of military operations on Palestinian families.
She said Palestinian suffering existed before the events of October 7 and highlighted experiences of displacement, restrictions on movement and the loss of relatives during previous Israeli military campaigns.
Al-Abadla described how restrictions on crossings and access to medical care have affected Palestinians, saying some people have lost their lives while waiting for permission to leave Gaza for treatment.
Another speaker, Abdallah Marouf Omar of Istanbul 29 Mayıs University, focused on Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, saying the city remains a central element of the Palestinian question.
He highlighted previous periods of unrest connected to Jerusalem and warned that changes to the status of religious sites could further increase tensions.
Hasan Basri Bulbul of Bogazici University discussed the role of the United Nations and UNRWA, saying the agency has become a major provider of education and humanitarian assistance for Palestinian refugees.
He said UNRWA’s role extends beyond aid delivery by supporting refugee communities and maintaining records connected to Palestinian displacement and identity.
Bulbul criticized international decisions that reduced support for UNRWA, saying funding shortages have weakened humanitarian services in Gaza, where many residents rely on the agency’s assistance.
The event also examined media coverage of Palestine, with students discussing how news language, imagery and storytelling influence public perceptions.
Participants argued that audiences should critically examine media narratives, seek diverse sources and pay attention to whose voices are included or excluded in coverage.
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