The discriminatory policies of Erdogan’s AKP government have created a hostile environment that led to the unfortunate armed attack during the Sunday mass at the Saint Maria Italian Catholic Church in Sarıyer district of İstanbul on January 28, where one person died.
The Islamic State jihadists claimed responsibility for the attack. The organisation stated that the attack was carried out in response to the call of ISIS leaders to target Jews and Christians everywhere.
The hate speeches propagated by President Erdogan and the discriminatory actions of the AKP party have undeniably played a significant role in inciting the attack. Their divisive language and policies have created an environment of hostility and intolerance, leading to the rise of extremism and violence. Erdogan and the AKP Party must recognise the consequences of their words and policies.
photo credit: Pi István Tóth
