Turkish Lawmaker Collapses Moments After Declaring Israel Will Face Allah’s Wrath

Turkish lawmaker Hasan Bitmez, 53, collapsed during a parliamentary session moments after delivering a fervent speech condemning Israel, declaring that the nation would “suffer the wrath of Allah.” The incident occurred while Mr. Bitmez was addressing the 2024 Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Internal Affairs budget.

In a viral video circulating on social media, Mr. Bitmez can be heard saying, “You will not escape the wrath of Allah. I salute you all,” just seconds before slumping on stage. During his speech, he quoted a poem by Turkish writer Sezai Karakoc, emphasizing the consequences of attempting to eliminate his people.

Emergency measures were swiftly taken, with Mr. Bitmez receiving CPR on the spot before being transported to Ankara Bilkent City Hospital. Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca confirmed the incident, revealing that the lawmaker was “intubated and brought to Ankara Bilkent City Hospital.” Mr. Koca explained that Mr. Bitmez had fallen ill during his speech and was promptly attended to by the General Assembly Health Team.

Providing an update on Mr. Bitmez’s condition via the micro-blogging platform, Minister Koca stated, “After angiography, he was put on a heart-lung pump and taken to intensive care. I offer him my best wishes.” Despite the medical intervention, he emphasized that the health staff continued to closely monitor the Turkish lawmaker admitted to the intensive care unit at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital.

The incident has sparked discussions both within Turkey and internationally, adding a layer of concern to the already strained relations between Turkey and Israel. The exact cause of Mr. Bitmez’s collapse remains under investigation, and further updates on his condition are awaited.