Turkey – Latest News

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• Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland illegitimate, unacceptable: Erdoğan December 30, 2025
  Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland is illegitimate and unacceptable, the Turkish president said on Dec. 30.
• Snow sculpture completed in Kars ahead of Sarıkamış Campaign anniversary December 30, 2025
  Authorities in Türkiye’s eastern province of Kars have completed one of two snow sculptures being prepared as part of commemorative events marking the 111th anniversary of the Sarıkamış Campaign, one of the most tragic episodes of World War I for the Ottoman army.
• Türkiye shaken 6 times an hour as 2025 sees over 53,000 earthquakes December 30, 2025
  Türkiye was shaken by 53,262 earthquakes this year, a rhythm that translates into six tremors every hour and 146 each day, making 2025 the second most seismically active year since the devastating Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes that hit the country’s south.
• Türkiye captures over 350 ISIL terrorists as raids stepped up after Yalova clash December 30, 2025
  Turkish security forces on Dec. 30 intensified nationwide operations against the ISIL terrorist organization following the killing of three police officers during a counterterrorism raid in the northeastern province of Yalova, detaining 357 suspects across 21 provinces.
• US pledges $2 bln for UN aid, with warning December 30, 2025
  Washington has pledged an initial $2 billion for United Nations humanitarian aid in 2026, far less than it has provided in recent years, warning U.N. agencies to "adapt, shrink or die."
• Bondi Beach mass shooting suspects 'acted alone' December 30, 2025
  A father and son accused of a mass shooting at Australia's Bondi Beach "acted alone" and were not part of a wider terrorist cell, police said on Dec. 30.
• Syria reveals new post-Assad banknotes December 30, 2025
  Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa unveiled on Dec. 29 new banknotes replacing those showing ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad and his family, hoping the Syrian pound can regain some of the value lost to over a decade of war.
• Türkiye sees 2026 as pivotal year for energy projects, minister says December 30, 2025
  Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said 2026 would be a “critical” year for Türkiye’s energy agenda, arguing it would be the point when several major programs begin to deliver visible results.
• Istanbul’s airports set all-time passenger records in 2025 December 30, 2025
  Passenger traffic at Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport climbed to all-time highs in 2025, according to data published by Türkiye’s airports authority and information provided by the operators.
• China fires rockets on second day of military drills around Taiwan December 30, 2025
  China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter aircraft and navy vessels around Taiwan on Tuesday for a second day of live-fire drills aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island's key ports and assaults on maritime targets.
• Spain inks deal to purchase 30 units of Turkish jet trainer HURJET December 30, 2025
  Spain signed an agreement with Türkiye for purchasing 30 units of the Turkish jet trainer aircraft HURJET, worth €2.4 billion ($2.8 billion), the head of Türkiye's Defense Industries Secretariat announced on Monday.
• Trump says Türkiye and Israel will ‘not have a problem’ December 30, 2025
  U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that Türkiye and Israel will not have a problem, dismissing concerns over potential conflict as he spoke alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a joint news conference in Florida.
• Myanmar junta accuses rebels of 'malicious' election attacks December 30, 2025
  Myanmar's junta on Tuesday accused rebels of "malicious and brutal" attacks on the day and eve of military-run elections, wounding at least five civilians with drones, rockets and bombs.
• Moscow says Kiev fired drones at Putin residence December 29, 2025
  Russia on Dec. 29 accused Kiev of firing drones at Vladimir Putin's residence between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, announcing it would "revise" its negotiating position on ending the Ukraine war after the "terrorist attack."
• Türkiye names ‘digital conscience’ as 2025 word of the year December 29, 2025
  Türkiye’s state language authority has named “digital conscience,” rendered in Turkish as “dijital vicdan,” as its word of the year for 2025, following a nationwide public vote that drew nearly 300,000 votes, the country’s culture minister announced on Dec. 29.
• Brigitte Bardot’s enduring echo in pop music December 29, 2025
  Brigitte Bardot was far more than a defining face of 1960s French cinema. Actor, singer and later a prominent animal welfare activist, Bardot also became a lasting cultural reference in popular music, where her name has been repeatedly invoked by artists across generations as shorthand for allure, desire and iconic beauty.
• Maritime exhibition area opens at Troy Museum December 29, 2025
  A new Maritime Exhibition Area has opened at the Troy Museum in Çanakkale, showcasing a full-scale replica ship inspired by Homer’s epics and built using techniques from the Trojan era.
• Türkiye seizes $2.2 bln worth of smuggled goods this year December 29, 2025
  Turkish customs authorities seized smuggled goods worth 98.5 billion Turkish Liras (around $2.2 billion) in 2025, a 79 percent increase compared with the previous year, Trade Minister Ömer Bolat has said.
• Top court upholds life sentences for family in Diyarbakır girl murder December 29, 2025
  The Court of Appeals on Dec. 29 upheld life sentences for family members convicted in the murder of Narin Güran that shook the nation last year, while ruling that a cooperating neighbor will be retried on charges of aiding in the killing.
• Amastris to open with archaeological site status December 29, 2025
  Following the discovery of a 2,000-year-old Roman-era stoa (colonnaded gallery), efforts are underway to designate the ancient city of Amastris in the northern province of Bartın's Amasra district as an official archaeological site, paving the way for it to be opened to visitors.
• Türkiye’s Kızılelma achieves world 1st autonomous close-formation flight December 28, 2025
  Turkish defense company Baykar announced on Dec. 28 that two prototypes of its Bayraktar Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft have successfully carried out the world’s first fully autonomous close-formation flight by jet-powered drones.
• Purity, place and process December 28, 2025
  For the coming year 2026, my motto in the world of food will be Purity, Place, and Process. To be precise, these three essential Ps elevated above a fourth: Pomp. This year, having had many lunches and dinners and several tasting menus lasting several hours, I’ve concluded that the moments I enjoyed most combined these crucial elements. In a way, the triple […]
• New regulation requires detailed proof for high-value bank transfers December 28, 2025
  Money transfers of 200,000 Turkish Liras (around $4,600) and above will require banks to record both the source of the funds and the stated purpose of the transaction starting Jan. 1, 2026, under a new regulation introduced by Türkiye’s Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK).
• Five must-see ancient theatres in Turkey August 6, 2021
  As the lands of Turkey hosted numerous civilizations and empires for thousands of years, the country still carries traces of history. There are more than 50 unearthed ancient theaters in Anatolian lands, remaining from the Greek and Roman periods. 
• 10 hidden beauties of Turkey for an isolated vacation July 9, 2020
  Turkey, with its abundance of natural and cultural heritages, is a place where tourists from all over the world can spend their holiday, whether it is an adventurous one or a calm one. While the Anatolian lands host millions of tourists every year in its popular destinations, the country also hosts numerous pristine locations. Click through the story in phot […]
• Academics spending more than 30 years in ancient excavation area April 30, 2020
  As 2020 was declared the Year of Patara, interest increased in the ancient city, located between the resort districts of Kaş and Fethiye
• The life of Whitney Houston to be made into feature film April 24, 2020
  The Oscar-nominated screenwriter behind “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “The Two Popes” has been lined up to write and co-produce a new feature film on the life of Whitney Houston, U.S. media reported April 22.
• Beyoncé, Gaga offer hope at all-star event fighting COVID-19 April 19, 2020
  Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Lizzo, Shawn Mendes and others sang classic songs brimmed with messages of hope and change during a TV special aimed at fighting the coronavirus, while Beyoncé and Alicia Keys spoke passionately about how the virus has disproportionately affected black Americans.
• Handwritten 'Hey Jude' lyrics sell for $910,000 April 12, 2020
  A sheet of paper bearing Paul McCartney's handwritten lyrics to "Hey Jude" sold for $910,000 in an online auction held on April 10 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' historic split.    
• First supermoon of 2020 brightens up Edirne skies February 10, 2020
  A supermoon is seen over Turkey's northwestern Edirne province on Feb. 9, 2020. The astronomical event occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, making it appear much larger and brighter than usual. (AA Photo)
• Cappadocia under snow: A winter fairy tale February 1, 2020
  As winter tightens its grip in Turkey, Cappadocia's beautiful scenery under a blanket of new pristine snow mesmerizes visitors. (IHA Photo)
• Istanbul’s emotion map revealed January 31, 2020
  The Mental Health Association, a Turkish-based non-governmental organization, has found the Maiden Tower in Istanbul is where the users of a smartphone application found the most romantic place in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city.
• Stockbreeders life in Turkey's Van January 28, 2020
  Stockbreeders are seen with their flock at a countryside following snowfall during winter season in Van, Turkey on Jan. 27. (Source: Anadolu Agency)
• Riveting time-lapse photos of the night sky from east Turkey January 9, 2020
  A photographer from Turkey shot riveting time-lapse photos of the night sky from eastern Bingöl and Elazığ provinces.
• Top 5 best treks near Istanbul November 26, 2019
  Love the outdoors and exploring on foot? Here are some of the best hiking trails in near Istanbul!
• 5 must-visit Turkish villages November 12, 2019
  Turkey is one of the most extraordinary countries to visit. Here, we list the 5 unmissable villages in the country.
• A magical journey into the sea: Turkey’s underwater museum November 5, 2019
  Turkey’s first underwater museum takes scuba divers into a mystical journey with over 115 sculptures.
• Most budget-friendly destinations for a fall getaway in Turkey October 22, 2019
  As the weather gets colder and Mother Nature gently spreads its autumn colors, destinations for fall getaways become more popular among the world’s tourists. Turkey, with its abundant natural heritage, offers budget-friendly and romantic destinations for travelers. Click through for the most affordable holiday stops in Turkey. (Photos: Alamy)
• World’s top 20 beautiful cities list has one Turkish metropolis October 21, 2019
  Turkey’s metropolis Istanbul has been ranked 17th in the list of the most beautiful cities in the world by online travel agency Flight Network. Click through for the top 20 most beautiful cities in photos… (Photos: Alamy)
• Color fest in autumn in Kazdağları October 15, 2019
  Chestnut forests in the Kazdağları, surrounded by yellow and red tones and autumn outfits, attract photographers and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
• Enchanting sunset at Mount Nemrut October 5, 2019
  Visitors snap photos of massive stone heads that stare down on them from the summit of Mount Nemrut. (Source: The Associated Press)
• Butterfly garden in Central Anatolia draws 1.5 mln visitors in 5 years September 9, 2019
  The Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden is the only place in Turkey where one can observe every phase of metamorphosis, from small larvae to colorful butterflies.
• Turkish women who made history August 16, 2019
  With the birth of the Turkish Republic, many rights have been granted to women, marking a milestone in the history of both the country and the world. The modern republic’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and his sweeping reforms have aimed to create gender equality between women and men, as he was one of the first leaders in the world to grant women the righ […]
• Ceremonial Hall, the most spectacular room of Dolmabahçe August 13, 2019
  Dolmabahçe Palace has been astonishing visitors with its stunning architecture and breathtaking designs but the most astounding room it houses is the Ceremonial Hall.
• Aizanoi, the second Ephesus of Turkey August 10, 2019
  Aizanoi, located in the western province of Kütahya’s Çavdarhisar district and on the UNESCO Tentative List of World Heritage, is home to the best-protected temple in Anatolia: The Temple of Zeus. (Photos: Alamy)
• Most bizarre Turkish superstitions that will surprise you July 11, 2019
  From seeing a black cat to breaking a mirror, Turkish culture embodies many superstitions that are quite unique. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, to find out the most bizarre Turkish superstitions - which will definitely surprise you... (Photos:Alamy)
• Seven must-see ancient cities in Turkey June 29, 2019
  Turkey, with its abundant cultural heritage, was home to many ancient and archaic civilizations and empires. The patterns and remains of this rich history and culture are still evident in the ancient sites of Anatolian lands. Click through this photo gallery for the most mesmerizing and mystical ancient cities in Turkey, as compiled by İnci Hazal Özcan:
• Top 10 sites for camping in Turkey June 22, 2019
  From the Black Sea region to the serene beauty of the Aegean and the Mediterranean, Turkey offers picturesque camping sites for those seeking a budget-friendly holiday in the wilderness. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, including the best ten camping sites in Turkey that you should know about:
• 5 hidden exotic paradises of Turkey May 23, 2019
  Crystal clear waters, golden beaches and abundant natural heritages, along with thousands of artifacts and ruins from ancient times, the Anatolian lands intrigue many guests from overseas. But for those looking for a calmer journey in Turkey, the country still holds many uncharted summer destinations waiting to be discovered. Click through for five hidden ex […]
• 11 prominent Turkish painters of 20th century May 8, 2019
  Don’t let the 150-year history of modern Turkish painting fool you; it is only the tip of the iceberg. Rooted in the 500-year history of traditional Ottoman miniaturization, the art of painting evolved in these lands when the society was released from Abdulhamid II’s tyrannical reign. Click through for 16 ingenious Turkish painters of the 20th century you sh […]
• 16 astonishing UNESCO sites you probably didn’t know were in Turkey January 3, 2019
  Turkey has been the host to many ancient civilizations and empires for ages. Its heritage can be seen in its preserved sites, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Some of them remain largely undiscovered, though. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, including the 16 UNESCO sites in Turkey that you should --but probably did not-- […]
• Most popular Turkish pilot on social media changes job October 3, 2018
  Ebru Ünsal, who has been described as the most popular Turkish pilot on social media, has switched jobs. Click through for the story in photos...
• Top 15 exciting places and activities in Turkey September 22, 2018
  For lovers of adrenaline sports and wildlife activities, Turkey presents a number of breathtaking options. Click through for the full list with a bonus in the end...
• Turkey’s top 50 female CEOs September 6, 2018
  Turkish business magazines Capital and Ekonomist have selected the “50 Powerful Female CEOs” of Turkey. Here is the full list announced at a ceremony in Istanbul on Sept. 5, 2018:
• Top 10 waterfront restaurants in Turkey, selected by Hürriyet jury September 5, 2018
  Whether it is the gorgeous Bosphorus or the biblical River Euphrates, Turkey provides many options for those who would like to dine at a waterfront venue. Click through for the top 10 waterfront restaurants in Turkey selected by Hürriyet Travel’s jury of experts.
• 22 unique experiences in Turkey, from petting stray cats to oil wrestling August 30, 2018
  If you come to Turkey, you should not leave without experiencing at least some of its uniqueness. See, hear, feel, eat, travel, have fun and love in Turkish style. Click through our list of unique experiences that you can only have in Turkey...
• Top 10 natural marvels in Turkey selected by Hürriyet’s jury August 29, 2018
  The Anatolian geography with its climate, unique location and biodiversity is home to several unique natural beauties. Lakes in the green valleys, mountain plains, unique rock formations, rivers, valleys and beaches… Hürriyet Travel has compiled the must-see natural marvels of Turkey. It is our hope to preserve these landscapes in the future. Click through f […]
• Top 9 places in Turkey for vacation in September August 28, 2018
  Those who have not been able to go on vacation over the summer or those who wish to extend their vacation can check Hürriyet Travel’s list for the best holiday destinations in Turkey in the month of September. Click through for the story in photos...
• Top 10 boutique hotels in Turkey August 21, 2018
  Daily Hürriyet’s travel supplement, Seyahat, has listed the top 10 boutique hotels in Turkey. Click through for the story in photos...
• Best restaurants in Istanbul, ranked by Turkey's Pearly Gastronomy Guide August 20, 2018
  The Hürriyet newspaper's jury of experts has created the "Pearly Gastronomy Guide" to rank Turkey's best restaurants. Click through for the top 20 restaurants in Istanbul, according to the 2018 guide...
• Top 20 museums in Turkey August 17, 2018
  As a historic home to great civilizations like the Roman and Ottoman empires, Turkey has some of the world’s best museums. Click through for our top 20...
• Top 29 must-try Turkish street foods August 8, 2018
  Turkey is frequently described as a paradise when it comes to cuisine. Along with that, it also has hidden treasures in its streets as well. Click through for the top 29 Turkish street foods from "wet" hamburger to roasted chestnut, selected by the gastronomy jury of daily Hürriyet...
• 15 best hotels of Turkey in 2018, according to Tripadvisor August 6, 2018
  Tripadvisor’s annual list of best hotels has been published. Click through for the top 15 hotels in Turkey that won Travellers’ Choice 2018 awards with the votes of the website’s users.
• Turkish doctors become social media influencers June 28, 2018
  A recent trend on social media in Turkey is the increasing influence of a group of good-looking Turkish doctors. Click through for the photo story by Hürriyet reporter Kübra Genç...
• Best souvenirs to buy from 30 places in Turkey August 20, 2015
  Best souvenirs to buy from 30 places in Turkey