Turkey – Latest News

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• Türkiye targets early-2026 reopening of 350-km railway along Syrian border December 9, 2025
  Türkiye is moving toward the reopening of a key 350-kilometer railway running parallel to the Syrian border, with officials aiming to bring the line back into service in the first quarter of 2026, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu has said.
• Erdoğan calls Türkiye a ‘builder of order and peace’ December 9, 2025
  President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan cast Türkiye as a stabilizing force and a builder of regional order on Dec. 9, using a gathering in Ankara to tout the country’s global role.
• Office building fire in Jakarta kills more than 20 people December 9, 2025
  A fire ripped through an office building in Indonesia's capital, Jakarta on Dec. 9, killing at least 22 people, including a pregnant woman, police said.
• Parts of US security strategy 'unacceptable,’ says Merz December 9, 2025
  German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Tuesday that parts of the new U.S. national security strategy unveiled last week were "unacceptable to us from a European perspective".
• Former UK leader dropped from Gaza 'board of peace': Report December 9, 2025
  Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has been dropped from U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed “board of peace" for Gaza following objections from Muslim countries, according to a report.
• Antalya’s church of St Nicholas prepares UNESCO heritage bid December 9, 2025
  The Church of St. Nicholas in the southwestern city of Antalya’s Demre, the town where the historical figure known worldwide as Santa Claus once lived and was buried, is moving toward a UNESCO World Heritage nomination as archaeological work gains momentum.
• Türkiye plans to adopt bank-style security system after massive courthouse theft December 9, 2025
  Türkiye will introduce a bank-style “three-key” mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to judicial evidence vaults after a high-profile theft at an Istanbul courthouse exposed vulnerabilities in the system, the Turkish justice minister has announced.
• Lantern-lit night tours draw crowds into Yedikule Fortress’ eerie dungeons December 9, 2025
  The centuries-old Yedikule Fortress, one of Istanbul’s most striking historic silhouettes, is drawing crowds to its moonlit night tour through its notorious dungeons guided only by lantern light.
• Several top-tier players jailed pending trial in Turkish football betting probe December 9, 2025
  Türkiye’s widening football betting scandal intensified on Dec. 9 after an Istanbul court ordered the pre-trial detention of 20 suspects, including top-tier players, club presidents and referees.
• 2025 on track to tie second hottest year on record December 9, 2025
  The planet is on track to log its second hottest year on record in 2025, tied with 2023 after a historic high in 2024, Europe's global warming monitor said on Dec. 9.
• Cambodia-Thailand clashes spread on border as toll rises December 9, 2025
  Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia spread Tuesday to new parts of their contested border as the toll rose to 10 killed and more than 140,000 civilians fled the violence.
• US will allow sale of advanced Nvidia AI chips to China December 9, 2025
  President Donald Trump has said that he would allow Nvidia to sell an advanced type of computer chip used in the development of artificial intelligence to “approved customers” in China.
• Türkiye-Belgium Defense Industry Day held in Brussels December 9, 2025
  Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken has highlighted Türkiye as a country with "a rapidly growing defense potential and a dynamic industry renowned worldwide," as officials gathered for the Türkiye-Belgium Defense Industry Day in Brussels.
• Automotive industry speeds up international sales in November December 9, 2025
  Türkiye’s automotive sector, long the backbone of the nation’s export economy, delivered a sharp rise in overseas sales last month, underscoring its resilience in global markets.
• Sunflower oil exports poised to exceed $1 billion this year December 9, 2025
  Türkiye’s sunflower oil exports surged in the first 11 months of 2025, rising 16.8 percent year-on-year to reach $959 million, compared with $821.13 million in the same period last year.
• Paramount’s Warner Bros bid raises some political questions December 9, 2025
  Paramount on Dec.8 launched a hostile takeover offer for Warner Bros. Discovery, initiating a potentially bruising battle with rival bidder Netflix to buy the company behind HBO, CNN.
• Termessos offers sweeping mountain views December 8, 2025
  Located in Antalya’s Güllük Mountain National Park, the ancient city of Termessos draws nature lovers and history enthusiasts with its rugged landscape, endemic wildlife and remarkably preserved ruins
• Human-figure rock art found in central Türkiye December 8, 2025
  Newly identified rock paintings in a mountainous area may push Kayseri’s known history thousands of years further back, experts say
• İzmir moves to preserve fading village recipes December 8, 2025
  In a bid to save culinary traditions at risk of disappearing, the western province of İzmir has launched an extensive project to document its long-standing village dishes by gathering recipes directly from elderly women who have preserved them for generations.
• European allies back Zelensky after Trump criticism December 8, 2025
  Ukraine's European allies put on a show of support for President Volodymyr Zelensky Monday as they expressed scepticism about parts of the U.S. proposal to end the war with Russia.
• Türkiye, Hungary sign agreements on security, culture, to enhance ties December 8, 2025
  Türkiye and Hungary on Monday signed agreements on many fields, including aviation, security, technology, culture, and education, to enhance bilateral ties, the President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said.
• 11 million flock to Notre-Dame in a year December 8, 2025
  A year after reopening to the public, Notre-Dame cathedral has drawn more than 11 million visitors, flocking to admire its restored pale stone and minimalist furnishings after the 2019 blaze that devastated the Paris landmark.
• Does a Michelin star shine brighter elsewhere? December 8, 2025
  The Michelin Guide remains one of the world’s most authoritative restaurant rating systems, with its influence varying by region. In recent years, it has actively expanded into new countries and has now been present in Türkiye for three years.
• 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