Turkey – Latest News

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• Defense officials say work on S-400 issue ongoing July 16, 2026
  Turkish defense authorities said on July 16 that work on the future status of the country’s Russian S-400 air defense systems is continuing, as reports said Ankara could transfer the missile systems to a third country as part of efforts to resolve a long-running dispute with the United States.
• Turkish singer Levent jailed pending trial in charity fund probe July 16, 2026
  Turkish rock singer Haluk Levent was jailed pending trial early on July 16 as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities involving Ahbap, the charity organization he founded.
• Tehran warns of ‘existential war’ with US, threatens regional infrastructure July 16, 2026
  Tehran on July 16 threatened to destroy “all the infrastructure in the region,” saying it was engaged in an “existential war” with the United States, as the foes battled over the vital Strait of Hormuz in the renewed Middle East war.
• Guterres to make landmark Cyprus visit as UN pushes for peace efforts July 16, 2026
  U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is set to visit Cyprus later this month for talks with the leaders of both communities, in what is being described as his latest diplomatic effort to revive long-stalled peace negotiations on the ethnically divided island, media reported on July 16.
• Four Greek MPs indicted in EU farm scandal July 16, 2026
  The European prosecutor's office on July 16 said four Greek members of parliament were among 22 people indicted over a multi-million-euro EU farm subsidy scandal that has rocked the government.
• Erdoğan says Türkiye remains hope for ‘oppressed’ July 16, 2026
  President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said on July 15 that Türkiye remains a source of hope for “the oppressed” across the Middle East and beyond, as the country marked the 10th anniversary of the 2016 failed coup attempt with nationwide commemorations.
• Trade Minister Bolat to hold high-level talks in Brussels July 16, 2026
  Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat is set to visit Brussels on July 16-17, where discussions will focus on strengthening trade and economic relations between Türkiye and the European Union and preserving industrial integration between the two sides.
• Türkiye pushes for resumption of Ukraine talks in Istanbul July 16, 2026
  Türkiye has engaged in a new round of efforts for the resumption of negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian officials in the Istanbul format as Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan paid a two-day visit to Kiev amid recent military escalation that killed at least five people in Ukraine.
• NATO summit injects up to $19 million into Ankara economy July 16, 2026
  Türkiye’s hosting of the NATO summit this month generated a major economic boost for Ankara, contributing an estimated 900 million Turkish Liras ($19 million) to the capital’s economy through accommodation, dining, transportation, shopping and other tourism-related spending, a senior official has said.
• Türkiye’s free zones hit record $6.6 billion exports in first half July 16, 2026
  Exports from Türkiye’s 19 free zones reached a record $6.6 billion in the first half of the year, up 6.2 percent year-on-year, the Trade Ministry said on July 16.
• Türkiye’s central government budget posts $2.4 billion surplus in June July 16, 2026
  Türkiye’s central government budget posted a surplus of 114.2 billion Turkish Liras ($2.4 billion) in June, according to official figures released on July 16.
• Russian, Ukrainian strikes kill 5 July 16, 2026
  Russian and Ukrainian strikes killed five people on both sides of the war border, officials said on July 16.
• Protests across Ukraine against removal of defense minister July 16, 2026
  Large protests erupted in several Ukrainian cities on July 16 morning against the removal of popular Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
• AKP, DEM Party set talks on draft law for anti-terror bid July 15, 2026
  The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) is reportedly preparing to share a draft framework law with the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) this week as part of efforts to establish a legal basis for its anti-terror initiative.
• US military will be out of Iraq by end of September: PM July 15, 2026
  The U.S. military will leave Iraq by the end of September, American and Iraqi officials said Tuesday, following a 23-year presence that started with the 2003 invasion against Saddam Hussein and ended with much smaller operations against ISIL.
• Student amnesty bill passes key parliamentary committee July 15, 2026
  A sweeping higher education reform bill that includes a long-awaited student amnesty has cleared the Turkish Parliament’s Education Commission, paving the way for a parliamentary vote.
• Türkiye’s exports to Gulf countries surpass $800 million in June July 15, 2026
  Türkiye’s diplomatic engagement with Gulf countries continued to be reflected in its trade performance, with exports to the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rising by 35.7 percent year-on-year to $826.753 million in June.
• 13th panel of the ‘Gypsy Girl’ mosaic returned to Türkiye July 15, 2026
  A missing fragment of the iconic ‘Gypsy Girl’ mosaic has been returned to Türkiye from the United States and reunited with the rest of the ancient work, marking another milestone in the country’s ongoing campaign to reclaim looted artifacts
• Minister welcomes ratification of FTA by Ukrainian parliament July 15, 2026
  Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat has hailed the ratification of the free trade agreement (FTA) by the Ukrainian parliament as “another historic milestone.”
• Retiree turns wood into miniature landmarks July 15, 2026
  A retiree in the northern province of Rize is breathing new life into discarded wood by creating detailed miniature models of mosques, traditional highland houses, the Maiden’s Tower and historic landmarks entirely by hand.
• Exhibition commemorates July 15 martyrs July 15, 2026
  A portrait exhibition titled “253 Martyrs, 253 Portraits” has recently opened at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) in Istanbul as part of events marking July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day.
• Side blends ancient heritage with Mediterranean beauty July 15, 2026
  The ancient Pamphylian harbor city of Side has emerged as a premier destination for cultural tourism, pairing its remarkably intact Roman infrastructure with a lively seaside atmosphere.
• Ankara urges restraint after Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia July 15, 2026
  Türkiye has strongly condemned a missile attack launched by Yemen’s Houthi group against southern Saudi Arabia, the Foreign Ministry said.
• Message on the table July 13, 2026
  The 2026 NATO summit in Ankara was not all about politics; one aspect that made headlines was gastronomy. The summit presented a great opportunity to showcase Turkish cuisine on the international stage. State dinners and receptions at international platforms or bilateral meetings also provide opportunities to display gastronomic diplomacy.
• 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