Istanbul Exhibition Showcases Anadolu’s “The Witness” A Stark Reminder of Israel’s Atrocities in Gaza

ISTANBUL, Oct 7: A powerful photo exhibition featuring harrowing images from Anadolu Agency’s acclaimed book “The Witness” opened in Istanbul on Tuesday, shedding light on Israel’s ongoing crimes in Gaza.

Hosted by the Ümraniye Municipality, the exhibition held at the Ümraniye Culture and Art Center features 50 photographs captured by Anadolu journalists documenting the devastation, suffering, and resilience of Palestinians amid Israel’s relentless military assault.

Speaking at the opening, Ümraniye Mayor İsmet Yıldırım said the exhibition marks two years since the beginning of what he called “the Gaza massacre,” which began on October 7, 2023.

“People with even a shred of compassion around the world stand with Gaza,” he said.
“Anadolu Agency’s journalists risked their lives to capture the truth, and these photographs reveal the painful reality of Gaza’s tragedy. We are proud to host this exhibition to remind the world of these crimes.”

Among the attendees was activist Said Ercan, a participant in the recent Global Sumud Flotilla, who noted that Anadolu’s publications are now being used as evidence in international courts investigating Israeli war crimes.

“I witnessed the brutality firsthand,” Ercan said.
“Through exhibitions like this, we can educate young people and ensure the world does not stay silent. Türkiye has shown moral leadership by standing firmly with Gaza.”

Ercan also praised the Turkish Ministry of National Education for recently launching an awareness program in schools related to the Gaza conflict, calling it “a meaningful step in shaping global conscience.”

The exhibition will remain open to the public until October 24, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the photographic documentation of war, grief, and survival.

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed over 67,100 Palestinians since October 2023, the vast majority of them women and children. The ongoing bombardment has displaced millions, destroyed civilian infrastructure, and created conditions of famine, disease, and uninhabitability across the enclave.