Islamic Solidarity and Transnational Advocacy: The Case of Mehmet Akif Ersoy and Iran

Authors : Mortaza Firuzi, Murat Alanoğlu

Pages : 674-683

Doi:10.33709/ictimaiyat.1641032

View : 152 | Download : 894

Publication Date : 2025-11-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Cultural and historical similarities play a crucial role in fostering interactions between nations, while overlooking these commonalities can exacerbate perceived differences. Iran and Turkey share deep religious, linguistic, and literary traditions, which have historically influenced intellectual exchanges between the two nations. Mehmet Akif Ersoy, a prominent Turkish poet and thinker, exemplified this connection through his admiration for Iranian literature, particularly the works of Saadi Shirazi, and his deep concern for Iran’s political struggles. During the Iranian Constitutional Revolution (1905–1911), Mehmet Akif and Cemal Kuntay co-authored the poem “Acem Şahı” as a response to the bombardment of the Iranian National Council in 1908. This poem, published in Sebilürreşad, reflected Ersoy’s Islamist perspective, emphasizing resistance against autocracy. Recognizing his support, the Qajar government considered awarding him a Badge of Merit and Virtue. This paper examines Mehmet Akif’s perception of Iran and his advocacy for its people. It explores his biography and ideological approach, followed by an analysis of Iran’s response, particularly through two Ottoman documents on the proposed award. The findings suggest Ersoy’s commitment to the Ummah primarily motivated his defense of the Iranian Constitutional movement, positioning him as a transnational intellectual figure in the Muslim world.
Keywords : Mehmet Akif Ersoy, İran Meşrutiyet Devrimi, Osmanlı İmparatorluğu, İran-Türkiye İlişkileri, İslami Dayanışma

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