The conclusion of the siege and events on Saturday morning remain shrouded in uncertainty, with conflicting accounts making it difficult to ascertain the truth. According to the villagers, throughout Friday, the Turks surrounded the area, striking down anyone who dared to approach the gate. The Bashi-Bazouks, known for their reluctance to engage directly in combat, waited outside, preferring to seize individuals as they emerged, lured by false promises.
Change of Guard
On Saturday morning, a shift occurred as regular troops replaced the Bashi-Bazouks. The Armenian girl recounts how she cautiously peered out of the church and spotted a soldier standing before the slightly ajar gate. Taking a bold step, she approached him, pleading for mercy. To her relief, he reassured her and urged others to come out unharmed. Around two hundred and fifty to three hundred people, mainly women and children, followed her lead Guided Turkey Tours .
Surrender to Aziz Pacha
The surrendered group was escorted to Aziz Pacha, who welcomed them with apparent goodwill. He commended the Armenian girl for her initiative, expressing surprise at the delay in their surrender. According to him, he had been awaiting this moment to end the siege and cease the bombardment. He admonished the women and children for their perceived obstinacy, questioning why they endured shelling when they could have surrendered earlier.
Merciful Outcome
Remarkably, there are no reports of casualties following the surrender. The Armenian girl asserts that none of the surrendered women suffered mistreatment or assault. Despite the harrowing ordeal they endured during the siege, their surrender to Aziz Pacha seemingly spared them further harm.
Reflections
The conclusion of the siege highlights the complexities of human behavior in times of crisis. While some chose to resist stubbornly, others sought safety through surrender. Aziz Pacha’s response, while sparing the surrendered individuals, raises questions about the conduct of the siege and the motivations behind his actions. Overall, the events underscore the enduring resilience and survival instincts of those caught in the midst of conflict.
No comments:
Post a Comment