On March 17, 2025, Islamic organizations across Turkey united to host traditional Medina-style iftar gatherings aimed at fostering community spirit and raising awareness of the struggles faced by Muslims worldwide. One such gathering was organized by the IHH Kırıkkale Insani Yardım Derneği at Kırıkkale Bağış Mosque, where attendees broke their fast with meaningful food and camaraderie.
The iftar program kicked off with the recitation of the Quran, setting a solemn yet uplifting atmosphere for the event. Participants were served traditional dishes including soup, sesame rings (simit), buttermilk (ayran), dates, and water, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Muslim traditions and demonstrating how communities can come together even on simple terms.
The purpose of the event was not only to share food but to forge bonds of brotherhood among attendees and raise awareness of the challenges faced by Muslims living under harsh conditions across the globe. It was emphasized through this gathering how much the Islamic world needs solidarity and unity, highlighted by the simple yet fulfilling iftar spread.
During the event, Samet Paçacı, the head of the YediHilal Association, delivered remarks emphasizing the organization's efforts across Turkey. He stated, "Today, it has been granted to us to set up these tables in 107 representative offices across 55 different cities of Turkey. We express our gratitude to Allah. The mosque-centered iftar tables set by YediHilal have set an example throughout Turkey, and have become part of this blessed endeavor." His words struck a chord, showcasing how local efforts can resonate on a national level.
With heartfelt appreciation, Muhammed Fatih Aktı, the Istanbul Provincial Head of the YediHilal Association, also expressed his hopes for future gatherings within even more significant locations. "May Allah grant us the opportunity to organize Medina-style iftars not only here but also in free Jerusalem and Palestine," he expressed, inspiring attendees to dream of larger gatherings and solidarity.
The program concluded with the traditional call to prayer (azan), signaling to participants the end of their fast. This moment not only marked the beginning of their meal but also highlighted the deep-rooted religious and cultural traditions shared by Muslims worldwide.
Both gatherings at Kırıkkale Bağış Mosque and across various cities served as reminders of the virtues of empathy and solidarity within the Islamic community. The initiative elegantly demonstrated how simple acts of coming together can weave stronger communal bonds and raise consciousness of the collective challenges facing Muslims globally.
These Medina-style iftars reflect a broader movement within the Islamic world to recognize and address the plights of marginalized communities. By sharing their struggles and fostering awareness, organizers and attendees alike expressed their commitment to supporting fellow Muslims who endure hardship.
March's iftar celebrations stand as poignant reminders of the power of communal dining and the shared values of unity, faith, and mutual support. They exemplify how moments of reflection and gratitude can lead to actions of support and engagement, bridging gaps between different Muslim experiences across the globe.
For many participants, the Medina-style iftar is more than just breaking bread together; it's about forming lasting relationships grounded in shared faith and mutual respect. It serves as an avenue for Muslims to connect with their faith and one another, laying the groundwork for future communal initiatives aimed at global awareness.
These gatherings—be they at local mosques, community centers, or even across cities—remind attendees of the power they possess when they unite for a common cause. The ripple effect of mindful gatherings like these can encourage other communities to cultivate similar events, fostering goodwill and solidarity well beyond the iftar table.
