Exhibition Opens Amid Climate Talks
Murat Kurum, Turkey’s Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, used the platform of the ongoing climate conference to draw international attention to the devastation in Gaza. Speaking at the opening of an interactive exhibition titled “Hope for Return: The Story of an Olive Tree,” Kurum emphasized that his country aims to keep the tragedy of Gaza’s children and the suffering of its residents present before the representatives of 196 participating countries. The event took place within the Green Zone of the conference held in Antalya, hosted by the Turkish Ministry.
Visual Documentation of Destruction
The exhibition serves as a visual record of the transformations witnessed in the Gaza Strip, contrasting streets that once teemed with life against scenes of destruction left by Israeli attacks. Curators utilized artifacts brought directly from the sector, alongside photographic images and a damaged olive tree, to illustrate the impact on civilian lives and property. The display runs until November 20, featuring participation from the Turkish Public Employees Union and the International Labour Organization, alongside delegations from 196 nations and the European Union.
The Story of Sali
During the ceremony, Kurum specifically addressed the image of Sali, a five-year-old Palestinian girl who died during the war described as genocide by Israel. He recounted details of her life prior to her death, noting that she used to ask her aunt to take pictures of her before leaving for kindergarten. The photograph showing Sali wrapped in a shroud won the World Press Photo award for 2024. Kurum stated, “We, in turn, remind 196 countries of Sali’s tragedy and Gaza, on this day when we shed light on the topic of children within the conference.” The initiative aligns with efforts to highlight the humanitarian repercussions of the conflict and transfer the effects of damage to international forums coinciding with major climate discussions.
