Erdogan says memory of Karbala endures, love of Ahl al-Bayt lives on in hearts

ANKARA, Turkey — President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the tragedy of Karbala endures in collective memory and that love for the Ahl al-Bayt, the family of the Prophet Muhammad, holds an unshakable place in the hearts of Muslims. Speaking at a Muharram iftar program hosted at the Presidential Complex, Erdogan called for stronger unity and solidarity among the Muslim community. The Turkish president said the state does not distinguish among citizens on the basis of sect, thought or belief, and that his government remains committed to equality, acting toward all with a spirit of brotherhood, mercy and justice. He reiterated the pain of Karbala and offered mercy and remembrance for the Ahl al-Bayt, the companions of the Prophet and Hussein ibn Ali, who was killed at Karbala in 680 AD. Erdogan said respect for the Ahl al-Bayt is a cornerstone of Turkish culture and history, and that bodies may fall but truth does not. He pointed to the Quranic verse urging believers to hold firmly to the rope of God and not be divided, calling it a shield for unity and togetherness.