Türkiye celebrates Eid al-Fitr with prayers and calls for unity  

Eid, for Muslims, brings the celebrations at the end of Ramadan, calling for prosperity and peace

Istanbul, Türkiye (MNTV) – Millions of Turks celebrated Eid al-Fitr on with traditional prayers, family gatherings and acts of charity, as senior government officials used the occasion to emphasize messages of national unity and global peace.  

The holiday marking the end of Ramadan saw worshippers fill mosques across the country, including Istanbul’s Grand Mosque where Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş delivered an address on the importance of Islamic solidarity.

“As we celebrate this blessed Eid, our hearts remain with the oppressed, especially our brothers and sisters in Gaza,” Kurtulmuş said, calling for an end to conflicts across the Muslim world.  

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan echoed these sentiments in his Eid message, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability and humanitarian efforts. 

“This Eid comes at a time when our world needs peace more than ever,” Fidan stated, noting Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic initiatives.  

Domestically, officials focused on public welfare and security. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported nationwide safety measures were in place, while urging citizens to exercise caution during holiday travel. 

“Our security forces are working tirelessly to ensure all citizens can celebrate safely,” Yerlikaya said, noting special traffic enforcement patrols had been deployed.  

Health Minister Fahrettin Koca took the opportunity to remind celebrants about maintaining wellbeing after the month-long fast. 

“As we enjoy Eid feasts with loved ones, let’s remember to prioritize our health,” Koca advised, recommending moderation in holiday meals.  

The celebrations also honored Türkiye’s military personnel, with Defense Minister Yaşar Güler expressing gratitude to armed forces members standing guard during the holiday. 

Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak, attending prayers in Istanbul, emphasized how Eid traditions strengthen social bonds across generations.  

From mosques to town squares, the holiday atmosphere reflected both joyful family reunions and solemn remembrance of those suffering in conflict zones, particularly Palestine. 

Many Turks incorporated charitable acts into their celebrations, with food and clothing donations organized nationwide for the less fortunate.  

As the three-day holiday continues, authorities report peaceful celebrations across all 81 provinces, with heightened security measures remaining in place at major gathering sites and transportation hubs.