The Legacy of Hasan Igdirli: The Last Ottoman Guardian of Al-Aqsa Mosque
Hasan Igdirli, renowned as the last Ottoman guardian of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, dedicated 65 years of his life to protecting this sacred site in Jerusalem. Born in the late 19th century in Igdir, Türkiye, his early life was marked by hardship and loss, particularly during the tumultuous period of Russian rule and the subsequent Armenian persecution. Despite these challenges, Igdirli rose through the ranks of the Ottoman army, demonstrating remarkable bravery during World War I, particularly at the Suez Canal and on the Palestinian front.
A Life of Courage and Sacrifice
During his military service, Igdirli commanded a machine gun group and played a pivotal role in various battles against British forces. His leadership and valor not only inspired his fellow soldiers but also solidified his status as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice for his homeland. Following the Ottoman withdrawal from Jerusalem in December 1917, he was left behind as part of a rear guard, tasked with protecting the city until British forces arrived.
The End of an Era
After the war, while many of his comrades demobilized, Igdirli chose to remain as a voluntary guardian of Al-Aqsa Mosque. He continued this duty until his death in 1982, becoming the last surviving member of his battalion. His commitment to the mosque was unwavering; he would stand guard daily, dressed in his old military uniform, embodying the spirit of the Ottoman Empire. Despite his passing, the legacy of Hasan Igdirli endures, symbolizing the deep historical and cultural ties between Türkiye and Jerusalem.
