Turkey – Latest News

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• Erdoğan pushes for new charter as parliament reopens October 1, 2026
  President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan renewed his push for a new constitution on Oct. 1 as Türkiye’s parliament began a new legislative year, describing the effort as a test of Turkish democracy.
• Türkiye to hand over key base to Iraq: Defense Ministry October 1, 2026
  Türkiye’s Defense Ministry has announced a phased handover of the Bashika-Zilkan military base to Iraq following an agreement between Ankara and Baghdad.
• US removes Syria from arms export ban October 1, 2026
  The Trump administration is removing Syria from a list of countries that are not allowed to purchase or import U.S. weaponry, a step that is part of a monthslong process of easing sanctions on the new government in Damascus and its leaders.
• Motive remains unknown after Israeli-bound plane escapes disaster October 1, 2026
  The motive of the Omani copilot who stabbed his captain on a flight to Israel, causing the plane to plummet dangerously and forcing it to land in Saudi Arabia, remained unknown on Oct. 1, as investigators across the region raced to learn more.
• Türkiye issues NAVTEX for Turkish Cyprus pipeline project October 1, 2026
  Türkiye has issued a new navigational warning covering parts of the Eastern Mediterranean, as its research vessel Oruç Reis prepares to conduct surveys related to a planned undersea natural gas pipeline linking southern Türkiye with Turkish Cyprus.
• Rubio orders visiting Iranian delegation to leave: Report October 1, 2026
  U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered Iran’s delegation, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to leave the U.S. after negotiations with Tehran reached an impasse earlier this week, Axios reported on Sept. 30.
• Ex-SPK chief Gönül defends oversight under his watch October 1, 2026
  İbrahim Ömer Gönül, who served as chairman of the Capital Markets Board (SPK) between April 2022 and April 2026, said the regulator carried out the necessary inspections during his tenure
• Turkish military vehicle maker Otokar signs $1.47 billion armored vehicle export deal October 1, 2026
  Turkish automotive and defense manufacturer Otokar announced on Oct. 1 that it had signed an export contract worth $1.47 billion to supply wheeled armored vehicles and integrated logistics support services.
• Türkiye’s capital markets regulator approves interim payments to investors in funds under liquidation October 1, 2026
  Türkiye’s Capital Markets Board (SPK) has approved interim payments of up to 1 million Turkish liras ($20,394) per eligible investor in funds established by Tera, Pusula, Atlas and Hedef portfolio management companies that are undergoing liquidation.
• Türkiye seals over $500 million in defense deals with Azerbaijan October 1, 2026
  Türkiye and Azerbaijan have signed contracts to supply 14 Hürkuş-II trainer aircraft and various defense systems under a series of deals worth more than $500 million, announced Haluk Görgün, head of Türkiye’s Secretariat of Defense Industries.
• Turkish intel nabs suspect in 2013 Reyhanlı attack October 1, 2026
  Turkish intelligence has apprehended one of the Syrian perpetrators of the 2013 Reyhanlı terrorist attack in southern Türkiye, which killed 53 people, as he was attempting to flee to Europe, security sources said on Oct. 1.
• Bolat, US Trade Representative discuss expanding bilateral trade October 1, 2026
  Trade Minister Ömer Bolat met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral trade and economic relations.
• Mersin mayor among 59 detained in corruption probe October 1, 2026
  A total of 59 people, including Mersin Mayor Vahap Seçer, were detained as part of a corruption investigation in the southern province on Oct. 1, in the latest operation targeting opposition-run municipalities.
• T24 news site shut down over ‘LGBT propaganda’ October 1, 2026
  An Istanbul court ordered the closure of the website and social media accounts of T24, a leading independent digital news website, citing its “LGBT propaganda,” authorities announced on Sept. 30.
• Türkiye transfers management of 3 banks, 2 factoring firms to deposit insurance fund October 1, 2026
  Türkiye’s banking regulator decided Wednesday to transfer the management of three investment banks and two factoring companies to the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF), following developments linked to an ongoing fund investigation.
• Under pressure Türkiye to take on Belgium October 1, 2026
  Türkiye faces a defining test of its football credentials in Europe’s elite tier on Oct. 2, stepping onto the pitch in Liege to take on Belgium in the UEFA Nations League.
• Historic church aims to join Cappadocia tourism route October 1, 2026
  Restored with its original frescoes, stonework and inscriptions preserved, the 190-year-old Aziz Eustathios Greek Church is being prepared to open as the İncesu City Museum
• Careless smoking causes 1,803 Istanbul fires October 1, 2026
  Cigarettes caused 1,803 fires across Istanbul in the first eight months of the year, accounting for 9.8 percent of 18,321 cases, municipal fire department data shows.
• 100,000 turtle hatchlings reach sea in southern Türkiye October 1, 2026
  Nearly 100,000 endangered sea turtle hatchlings reached the Mediterranean from nesting sites across Türkiye’s southern province of Mersin as the 2026 breeding season concluded.
• Saudi crown prince says Mecca pact aims to strengthen security October 1, 2026
  Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said on Sept. 30 that the defense pact between his country, Türkiye and Pakistan aimed to strengthen regional security and stability.
• Iraq drafts plan to disarm armed groups by mid-2027 October 1, 2026
  Iraq has drafted a plan to bring armed groups’ weapons under state control by June 2027, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said on Sept. 30, as the U.S.-led coalition concluded its military mission in the country.
• Filmekimi 2026 to be organized in four Turkish provinces September 29, 2026
  The 2026 edition of Filmekimi will bring award-winning films from major international festivals and new works by acclaimed directors to audiences in four Turkish cities.
• 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