Episode
I Said I Was a Zionist - Now I Can’t Go Home | Turku Avci
- Published
- Mar 15, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3121
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Summary
In this episode of The Western Spirit, Turkish student and political activist Turku Avci shares her extraordinary personal story after publicly declaring support for Israel — a decision that changed her life overnight.After speaking out as a Muslim who supports Israel and Zionism, Turku became the target of massive backlash in Turkey, facing online harassment, public accusations, and threats that now prevent her from safely returning home.In this powerful conversation, Turku explains what happened after October 7, how Turkish media portrays Israel, and why expressing pro-Israel views has become increasingly dangerous inside Turkey.Topics discussed:• What happened after she publicly supported Israel• Political pressure and public backlash in Turkey• Media narratives about Israel and Gaza• Freedom of speech under Erdogan’s Turkey• Islamism, propaganda, and public opinion• A Muslim voice defending Israel• Life in Israel through foreign eyes• The personal cost of political courageThis is a rare firsthand account of what happens when an individual challenges dominant political narratives — and the price that can follow.Subscribe to The Western Spirit for conversations with journalists, thinkers, activists, and global voices discussing Israel, geopolitics, democracy, and the future of the West.📌 Watch, share, and join the conversation to uncover what’s really at stake.📌 Support the channel by buying me coffee! ☕️ https://buymeacoffee.com/westernspirit📌 For business inquiries, including advertising opportunities on our show, please email us at: [email protected]📌 I wish to thank the Ayn Rand Institute in Israel for sponsoring this episode and helping us spread the word! Check out their group meet-ups here 👉🏼 https://www.meetup.com/israeli-students-of-objectivi…