Presidency's Head of Communications Fahrettin Altun shared a post on his social media account on "July 11, International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide."
Head of Communications Altun stated the following in his post:
"A forgotten genocide is repeated," said the late Aliya Izetbegovic.
"July 11th" is one of the most painful chapters in modern history that has yet to be closed. The agony of the Srebrenica Genocide, marked as the greatest human tragedy in Europe since World War II, still grips our hearts even after 29 long years.
Tragedies should serve as lessons for all of humanity. Amidst the relentless genocide unfolding in Gaza, there are valuable lessons for all to learn from Srebrenica, urging us to strive for a liveable world where human dignity is cherished and preserved.
In Srebrenica, a horrifying genocide unfolded before the eyes of the entire world in an area designated a "safe zone" by the UN.
Ratko Mladić, etched in history as the “Butcher of Bosnia,” like those who perpetuate the genocide in Gaza today, was tragically blinded by ideology and ignored the pleas of reason, common sense, and conscience.
If humanity had truly learned from the harrowing events in Srebrenica, where over 8,000 people were killed solely because of their identities and beliefs without making any distinction between the young and the old, the genocide in Gaza would not have taken place today.
Recently, with the support of our nation, the UN General Assembly adopted the Srebrenica Genocide Resolution. This resolution mandates that Srebrenica be taught to younger generations worldwide as a lesson.
Furthermore, a circular signed by our President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan designates July 11 in our country as the “International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide.” This day aims to share the profound pain and to condemn genocide and crimes against humanity.
We hope that this tragic event will deepen humanity’s conscience and awareness and awaken dormant consciences to the genocide unfolding in Gaza before the eyes of the entire world.
The bodies of 14 more victims will be laid to rest at this year's mass funeral on July 11.
I pray for Allah's mercy upon the Bosnian War victims who were massacred throughout brotherly Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly those who endured genocide in Srebrenica, all Bosnian martyrs, and Aliya Izetbegovic, the first President of the Independent Bosnia and Herzegovina, who showed the world that even war has its ethics. May they rest in peace, and may their loved ones find solace.