Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently addressed a crowd of young people in Mardin, Turkey, where they shouted, “Mr President, take us to Jerusalem!” Erdoğan responded, saying, “Patience brings victory.”
President Erdogan, addressing a crowd of young people in Mardin, Turkey, who chanted "Mr President, take us to Jerusalem" during his speech, responded by saying "Patience brings victory" pic.twitter.com/HLMPzhgkZX
— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) December 21, 2024
It is worth noting that Turkey considers Jerusalem part of the Ottoman Empire’s historical legacy.
Erdoğan is expected to visit the Umayyad Mosque in Syria in the coming period, a monument reflecting the grandeur of the Second Caliphate. Adjacent to it is the mausoleum of Saladin, the legendary leader who recaptured Jerusalem in 1187. Built in 1196, the mausoleum was renovated in the 19th century with the support of German Emperor Wilhelm II, strengthening the ties between the Ottoman Empire and Germany, a relationship that peaked during World War I.
Erdoğan’s visit aims to connect his neo-Ottoman vision with Sultan Abdulhamid II, who is regarded as a cornerstone of the Islamist vision of the AKP. The event carries significant symbolism, reinforcing Erdoğan’s position as a continuation of Ottoman heritage.
Also read: Turkey’s objectives in Syria
