
Karpowership Launches 'Future Grandmasters' Chess Initiative
Türkiye-based Karadeniz Holding's Karpowership has expanded its social impact efforts by launching Future Grandmasters, an international program to scout global chess stars.

A prominent opposition party mayor in Turkey, a former TV star, has been detained as part of a fresh crackdown on the opposition. This arrest marks another development in the ongoing political climate in Turkey.
Khalil al-Hayya, recently elected head of Hamas's political bureau, reportedly held his first high-level meeting with the Turkish foreign minister, reaffirming support.
An analysis explores the reasons behind Israel's increasingly strong rhetoric directed at Turkey and Syria, examining the historical context of their relations and recent developments.

Türkiye-based Karadeniz Holding's Karpowership has expanded its social impact efforts by launching Future Grandmasters, an international program to scout global chess stars.
The opposition has rejected a wave of accusations since 2024 and says the investigations are politically motivated. The government says the judiciary is independent.

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Prime Minister Ünal Üstel stated that any lasting resolution to the decades-long Cyprus dispute must be based on the recognition of sovereign equality.

Erdal Beşikçioğlu, the mayor of Ankara's Etimesgut district, was among 52 individuals detained as part of an investigation into alleged corruption within the municipality.

A Turkish forum, backed by President Erdogan's daughter, aims to 'decolonize' Western knowledge centers by shifting them to Constantinople and Gaza, sparking debate about its agenda.

Multiple mayors in Turkey, including the first female mayor of a former AKP stronghold and the mayor of Istanbul's Üsküdar district, have been detained as part of ongoing corruption investigations. These arrests are linked to alleged business irregularities and have also led to the detention of 15 other individuals.

İstanbul-based independent broadcaster Açık Radyo (Open Radio) has appealed to Turkey’s Constitutional Court, arguing that the revocation of its terrestrial broadcasting license violated freedom of expression and press freedom.

Türkiye and Tunisia have expressed a strong will to further boost their bilateral trade volume and deepen trade ties, with a particular focus on investment growth. Both nations aim to enhance their economic cooperation.

Professor Peter Talloen, who has led the Sagalassos ancient city excavations in Burdur, southern Türkiye, and chairs Bilkent University's Archaeology Department, has officially become a Turkish citizen after three decades of work in the country.

A wildfire, intensified by strong winds, has led to evacuations, the precautionary relocation of a state hospital section, and the closure of a major highway in Muğla, southwestern Türkiye.
Turkey has detained a rising opposition mayor who secured control of a symbolically important conservative district in Istanbul, expanding a political crackdown.

Turkey has commenced the restoration of the Gyumri–Kars railway, a crucial step towards re-establishing connections and normalizing relations with Armenia, as both countries continue efforts to officially open their borders.

Turkish President Erdogan announced that Turkey aims to sign an energy cooperation deal with Iraq. This agreement could potentially provide Turkey with one million barrels of oil per day.

Pakistan's Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) is set to lead a $5 billion trade initiative with Turkey, offering policies for the auto, EV, and battery sectors as a business delegation heads to Istanbul.
Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the court-appointed head of Turkey’s oldest party, has been implicated in a "rent-a-crowd" scandal after denouncing corruption during a party event.

Turkey's unionization rate fell below 14 percent in July, as the growth in the registered workforce significantly outpaced the increase in union membership, according to official figures.

Türkiye and Iraq agreed to deepen cooperation across various sectors including security, energy, defense, trade, and infrastructure, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasizing their neighborly ties.

Türkiye's state-run defense contractor Aselsan has successfully integrated its electro-optic reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting system into the South African-developed Mwari aircraft.

Türkiye's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) raised renewed criticism against the main opposition-run Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) over pollution in the Golden Horn.

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) received 1,248 applications from students at 156 universities across Türkiye for its 2026 Development Ambassadors Program.

Türkiye is making a strategic contribution to NATO's future security architecture through its advanced technology development capacity, engineering expertise, and defense industry cooperation.
Türkiye has successfully repatriated 65 wanted individuals, among them 27 subjects of Interpol Red Notices, through a coordinated international operation targeting suspects who had fled abroad.

Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Tom Barrack have held discussions focused on expanding bilateral tourism, protecting cultural heritage, and strengthening cooperation between the two nations.

A Turkish court has rejected an appeal against the arrest of comedian Deniz Göktaş, who faces charges of insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and inciting hatred during a stand-up performance.

Turkish authorities have blocked access to 3,679 social media accounts over a seven-month period, alleging connections to the faith-based Gülen movement.

Türkiye's second Communication Council is set to convene in Ankara on July 28-29 under the theme 'Century of Türkiye: The Century of Communication,' bringing together government officials and media stakeholders. The council will focus on media policy and communication strategies.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held discussions with a US envoy regarding Iran talks and is set to host the Sudanese Foreign Minister. Ankara is actively pushing for peace and reconstruction efforts in Sudan.

A new study indicates that heat waves in Türkiye have become significantly more frequent and intense over the past 75 years, with the summers of 2023 and 2025 identified as the most severe.

The Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA), a prominent Turkish think tank, has initiated a new program designed to support early-career academics in translating their research into practical public policy.

Türkiye's 'Women Emergency Assistance Notification System' (KADES) app, developed domestically, has reached nearly 10 million downloads, providing a crucial tool for protection.

Eighteen additional suspects have been detained as part of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of university student Gülistan Doku, who has been missing since January 5, 2020.

Five Turkish F-16 fighter jets and 76 crew members are preparing to fly to Estonia to undertake an air policing mission in the Baltic region as part of a NATO operation.

Türkiye's air passenger target for this year has been lifted to nearly 259 million, attributed to strong demand, especially on domestic routes.

Archaeologists have discovered a remarkably well-preserved blacksmith workshop, dating back approximately 1,500 years, at the ancient city of Seleukeia Sidera in Türkiye's southern Isparta province.

The Eskişehir-Istanbul High-Speed Train (YHT) line has transported over 62.9 million passengers since its launch 12 years ago, underscoring its growing importance as a transportation route.

Turkey is working to preserve the shipwrecks from the World War I Gallipoli battle, with divers and researchers documenting their findings in the surrounding deep waters to create an underwater window into history.

Türkiye has been elevated from an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner to a full ASEAN Dialogue Partner, marking a significant diplomatic milestone.

A media monitoring report indicates that Turkish courts sentenced six journalists to a combined seven-and-a-half years in prison during the second quarter of 2026. The journalists were convicted on charges including publicly disseminating information.

Turkish security forces have detained 128 individuals and jailed 51 across 22 provinces due to alleged links to the faith-based Gülen movement, according to the Interior Ministry.

Economists anticipate that Türkiye's central bank will gradually normalize monetary policy by first lowering its effective funding costs later this year, prior to considering any interest rate cuts.

Türkiye is set to transform the former Diyarbakır Prison into a memory museum, as part of broader efforts to revamp cultural sites. This initiative follows the recent renovation of the Anatolian Civilizations Museum with new exhibits.

A replica of the House of the Virgin Mary, a significant shrine in Türkiye, has been built and is inspiring Filipino faithful, connecting them to the site where Jesus' mother is believed to have spent her final years.

Türkiye's defense industry is reaching a significant milestone, entering a phase of mass production for many systems that have been under development for years. This marks a long-awaited achievement for the sector.

Turkey's Constitutional Court has ruled that the families of Alevis killed in the 1993 Sivas massacre will be compensated, acknowledging that victims were denied justice.

A Turkish governor was dismissed from his post after photos of him in snug cycling shorts sparked widespread online criticism. The decision has led to calls for his reinstatement from some quarters.
A mysterious fire occurred at a Turkish defense industry facility, an event that was reportedly downplayed. Concurrently, the Turkish defense industry is actively reshaping the battlefield in Sudan.
This article explains the natural processes over thousands of years that led to the formation of Pamukkale's dazzling white terraces in Turkey, a unique geological site.

Türkiye plans to commence flight training for its first Eurofighter Typhoon pilots in the United Kingdom next month, as part of its ongoing procurement program for the multirole fighter aircraft.

The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality in Türkiye has completed the Archaeological Excavation and Viewing Terrace Project, unveiling the restored Hıdırlık Tower archaeological site.

Domestic tourists in Türkiye spent TL 102.3 billion ($2.1 billion) on travel during the first quarter of the year, marking a 34% increase, with family visits and vacations being primary drivers.

A film by Turkish director Ferit Karahan selected for TIFF Debut

An artisan in Istanbul is dedicated to restoring rare handwoven textiles, including historic carpets from Ottoman palaces and a significant rug from Madinah's Riazul Jannah, preserving centuries of heritage.

A group of 54 lawmakers, legal experts, academics, and human rights advocates has urged Turkey to ensure that any amnesty related to its renewed Kurdish peace initiative covers all political prisoners, including those accused of involvement with the Gülen movement.

A Kurdish race walker has accused Turkey’s athletics federation of excluding him from an international competition due to his ethnic identity, prompting European Athletics to seek a response.

A group of volunteer clowns, led by a physically disabled community leader, is spreading smiles among children in rural neighborhoods across southern Türkiye by providing free entertainment.

Turkish authorities detained 355 irregular migrants and 25 suspected migrant smugglers during nationwide inspections conducted across all 81 provinces.

A unique fresco of a smiling Virgin Mary at Gümüşler Monastery is helping to put Nigde on the map for faith tourism.

Türkiye recorded over 62 million visitors last year, generating nearly $61 billion in tourism revenue, highlighting the sector's strength and the role of diplomacy in visitor arrivals.

The Ankara Metropolitan Municipality (ABB), led by the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), is reportedly setting records in the sale of its valuable assets and properties, drawing criticism.

Türkiye's musical history, from arabesque to rap, reflects a broader societal transformation, illustrating the evolving tensions between East and West, center and periphery, and religious influences.

Alican Uludag, a prominent Turkish investigative journalist and DW correspondent, has been re-arrested in Turkey. This marks another instance of detention for the journalist.

Turkish authorities have reversed the dismissal of at least 15 civil servants only after their deaths, years after they were removed from their jobs during the crackdown following the failed military coup in 2016.

Turkey's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has denied claims of a swarming grasshopper invasion reaching the country from the Balkans, Africa, or other regions.

Türkiye is positioning itself as a bridge to Latin America, with a particular focus on strengthening ties with Colombia to shape its industry and future.

Turkish authorities have detained 15 more suspects and found new evidence as part of the continuing investigation into the disappearance of university student Gülistan Doku.

A report by Arte suggests that European nations are turning a blind eye to Turkish President Erdoğan's authoritarian actions in exchange for his cooperation and assistance. The report highlights a perceived trade-off where Europe prioritizes practical help from Turkey over addressing concerns about its democratic backsliding.

Türkiye's unemployment rate fell to 7.6% in June, marking a 0.5 percentage point decrease month-on-month and reaching its lowest level since monthly records began in 2005.

Türkiye’s economic confidence index increased by 0.9% month-on-month to 99.8 in July, rising from 98.9 in June and approaching the optimism threshold, according to official data.

The European Commission has stated it plans no action regarding allegations of a mass data leak affecting over 350,000 people in Northern Cyprus. The leak reportedly involved a file belonging to the Turkish Cypriot 'health ministry' found on the dark web.

Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Turkiye, Dar and Fidan, discussed Jordan's proposal for an Arab-Islamic meeting during a phone call, expressing concern over Israeli actions in Gaza and violations at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Former Prime Minister Davutoğlu leaves party politics and dissolves his Future Party.

A Turkish court has revealed that restaurant workers at parliament sexually abused and harassed four underage high school interns, whose independent accounts described similar conduct, months after the legislature denied systematic harassment claims.

As it approaches its 25th anniversary, Türkiye's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) has unveiled a new logo featuring symbols representing its achievements over the years.

Allegiances are reportedly shifting in Turkish politics, with mayors and lawmakers switching sides to join the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party). A prominent mayor is expected to join their ranks.

Türkiye is expanding its biological pest control efforts by breeding and releasing thousands of partridges and pheasants into the wild to naturally combat ticks and agricultural pests.

A wildfire fueled by strong winds forced evacuations, prompted the precautionary evacuation of part of a state hospital, and led to the closure of a major highway in southwestern Türkiye.
The Turkish government has lifted its year-and-a-half-long ban on milling wheat exports, anticipating a record harvest.

According to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat), life expectancy at birth in Türkiye has increased to an estimated 78.5 years, as reported in its Life Tables, 2023-2025 report.

A new political rivalry has emerged in Türkiye after ninety members of Parliament, including Özgür Özel, resigned from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) to formalize the split.

Turkiye's opposition has experienced a split with former CHP chair Ozgur Ozel and other MPs forming a "New Party," posing a fresh political challenge to President Erdogan's AK Party.

Türkiye and Iraq are working to modernize customs procedures at their main border crossing, with the goal of expanding bilateral trade to $30 billion.

The family of a 17-year-old Kurdish girl injured by an armored police vehicle in southeastern Turkey claims officers pressured them to withdraw their complaint.

The Iraqi Prime Minister is visiting Turkiye for discussions focused on strategic cooperation, security, water, and economic issues, aiming to boost relations despite existing challenges.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke at the second Communication Council in Ankara, cautioning against what he termed 'algorithm fascism' and urging vigilance.

Istanbul, Turkey, has been selected to host the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in 2027. This event will bring international attention to the city and its rich cultural heritage.

The Istanbul Governor's Office has issued a directive mandating that all schools across the province must provide designated prayer rooms, with new educational institutions required to include such spaces in their design.

The Turkish capital, Ankara, is experiencing increasing water-related problems, which are being attributed to the municipality run by the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). The issues range from too much water to none at all.

Turkish artist Ahmet Yusuf Aygeç's exhibition, 'Posters for the Olive Tree in Exile,' is on display in Ramallah, blending Palestinian experience with the poetry of Mahmoud Darwish through visual art.

An analysis explores whether Türkiye can effectively adapt to the structural transformation of the global economy, which extends beyond typical cyclical fluctuations.

Türkiye's ruling Justice and Development Party expects to present a legal framework for its 'Terror-Free Türkiye' initiative to Parliament before it adjourns for its summer recess.

A total of 280 former lawmakers from Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) announced their resignation to support the newly established New Party. This move deepens a split within the opposition, coming days after the CHP's recent leadership changes.

Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation against journalists following a complaint alleging that the main opposition party (CHP) used paid individuals to pose as supporters at a ceremony.
Reports indicate that Turkey is attempting to influence Israel's upcoming elections through social media campaigns. This alleged interference has raised concerns about external influence on the democratic process.

Archaeologists excavating in the world-famous Temple of Artemis in Izmir have uncovered an extraordinary 1,200-year-old Byzantine grave containing premature twin infants. The buria...
Türkiye has seen record-high construction employment driven by an urban renewal boom, while its hydropower output also reached a record in the first half of the year due to higher dam levels.

Tensions are brewing between Türkiye's newly formed New Party (YP) and the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), from which YP members split last week, despite efforts by YP leader Özgür Öze.

Amazon Türkiye has initiated a new marketing campaign inspired by customer reviews, highlighting the country's vibrant entertainment scene. The campaign features actor and screenwriter Gupse Ö.

Türkiye will offer 805,747 university places for prospective students during the 2026 Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS) preference period, with expanded quotas in various fields.

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, former leader of Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), declared a 'cleansing operation' of the party, following the announcement of a new party by his successor, Özgür Özel.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced the new legal stage of the Terror-Free Türkiye process in the last week of June, emphasizing ongoing efforts.

Türkiye's Ministry of Family and Social Services has developed a 10-year vision document to monitor changes in the country's family and demographic structure and analyze their roles.
The US State Department has stated that Turkey does not meet the legal requirements to receive F-35 aircraft, indicating that no F-35s can be transferred until Ankara fully complies with US law.

Mehmet Fatih Cicekli, a Turkish governor, lost his job after posting social media content of himself in workout gear, leading to speculation that his attire was the cause.
The United States has imposed sanctions on financial networks operating in Turkey and Britain, citing their links to the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas. These actions target groups accused of supporting terrorism.

Turkish households' and the real sector's inflation expectations showed a decrease in July, according to a recent survey.

Turkish leaders commemorated the sixth anniversary of the reopening of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia as a mosque, while authorities announced progress on a new restoration project for the historic site.

Istanbul's healthcare system conducted 130 million medical examinations during the first six months of 2026, with public hospitals accounting for the vast majority of these consultations.

Cappadocia is getting ready for its annual festival of special-shaped hot air balloons, which will feature balloons in the forms of animals, rockets, and the Earth flying over the region's iconic rock formations.

Concerns are rising over civil liberties and protest rights in Turkey as the country prepares to host the United Nations COP31 climate conference, following mass detentions of environmental volunteers ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara.

A 51-page court statement from a Turkish woman imprisoned on alleged links to the Gülen movement details allegations of police threatening her with a gun, striking her, and removing her headscarf.

The Greek government spokesperson reiterated Athens' stance of not commenting on other countries' defense procurement programs, directly addressing former Prime Minister Tsipras' 'national defeat' claim regarding F-35s for Turkey.

Global music and beauty entrepreneur Rihanna has once again garnered attention from Turkish fans after following another Turkish account on social media, reigniting speculation about a potential visit to Turkey.

Former leader of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), Özgür Özel, has instructed his allied lawmakers to convene for a technical meeting as he prepares for his final departure from the party.

An expert attributes a recent surge in large grasshopper sightings across Istanbul and neighboring Turkish provinces to an unusually mild winter, describing it as a natural seasonal phenomenon.

The coastal district of Seferihisar in Izmir, Türkiye, is gaining popularity among diving enthusiasts due to its rich underwater biodiversity and colorful marine life.

Turkish universities are set to introduce 16 new higher education programs for the 2026-2027 academic year, aiming to better align curricula with the evolving demands of the job market.

The 'Timewalk Exhibition,' created by DEM Museums, has opened in London, bringing Türkiye's ancient legacy, including Göbeklitepe, to life in one of the world's cultural capitals.

The US State Department has informed Congress that Turkey does not yet meet the legal requirements for the potential delivery of F-35 fighter jets.

Türkiye has issued a Navtex advisory for seismic surveys in the Mediterranean Sea, signaling preparations for a natural gas pipeline connecting to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Lake Van, the world's largest soda lake, plays a vital role in moderating the climate of eastern Türkiye by mitigating extreme summer temperatures and preventing excessive winter cold.

One crew member was killed and three others injured in a drone attack on a Turkish-flagged vessel in the Black Sea, marking the latest security incident in the region.

Turkish social media influencer Fatma Soydaş was detained as part of an investigation into alleged insults against religious values.

Turkish Airlines (THY) has entered into three significant agreements to enhance pilot training quality through new simulator procurements and has also joined a fund supporting sustainable aviation fuel initiatives.

The Turkish government has issued a navtex, informing ships of its intention to commence seismic surveys for the construction of a natural gas pipeline between Turkey and Cyprus.

The corruption case involving the Republican People's Party (CHP) has widened in Ankara, with three individuals being detained in the Eyüpsultan district.

Ozgur Ozel, the recently deposed leader of Turkey's main opposition party, has announced his intention to resign from his current party and establish a new political party. This move signals a significant shake-up in Turkish opposition politics.

Human Rights Watch has called on Turkey to intensify its investigation into the disappearance of two Turkmen activists, Alisher Sakhatov and Abdulla Oruso, and disclose their whereabouts as the first anniversary of their disappearance approaches.

The Sabri Ülker Foundation has initiated a long-term strategic partnership between Newcastle University and Hacettepe University to enhance scientific cooperation on child health globally.

Ukrainian drone strikes have caused damage to a Turkish retailer's stock facilities located in Russia. The attacks impacted the company's inventory.

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş has begun visiting political parties to discuss a new law related to the 'terror-free Türkiye' initiative, aiming for the disarmament of the PKK terrorist group.

Türkiye's Great Union Party (BBP) is pushing for a renewed investigation into the death of nationalist politician Muhsin Yazıcıoğlu, hoping to find closure regarding long-held suspicions of FETÖ involvement.

Türkiye's Justice Ministry has announced the creation of specialized terrorism investigation units within provincial prosecutors' offices across the country.

Former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has announced his departure from politics after his party failed to make a breakthrough in uniting conservatives, marking the end of a career where he was seen as a key architect of modern Turkey's 'soft power' strategy.

Türkiye and Moldova discussed measures to deepen economic and strategic cooperation, focusing on trade, defense technologies, and investment.

A proposed NBA Europe league is anticipated to significantly benefit Istanbul's economy, with projections indicating it could generate $2.2 billion in economic activity for the city.

The United Nations has begun discussions to select its next Secretary-General, while the Cyprus issue has re-emerged on the international stage. Turkish President Erdogan has issued strong warnings regarding the island's future, emphasizing that no resolution process will succeed without acknowledging Turkish Cypriot positions.

Turkish President Erdoğan stated that Israel's aggression is negatively impacting the entire region, emphasizing the widespread consequences of the conflict.

Bülent Kemik, a 51-year-old former police officer who was dismissed and imprisoned over alleged links to the Gülen movement, died of colon cancer in Nevşehir, Turkey.

Türkiye's rapidly growing shipbuilding industry is looking to expand its role in Nigeria's maritime modernization efforts, with both countries reportedly moving towards joint ventures.

Türkiye's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) is under investigation following allegations that paid extras were used in party activities.

The historic Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul has begun offering a new series of Quran tafsir lessons in English, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the holy book.

Ankara and Baghdad are expanding their energy cooperation beyond pipeline transit to include upstream production, marking a new and 'historic' dimension in their partnership after Türkiye's state-run company took a stake in a project.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital in Türkiye continues to astonish visitors with its centuries-old artistry, which is uniquely illuminated by sunlight.

Ankara has made a significant move towards an energy alliance with Iraq, potentially receiving 1 million barrels per day of Iraqi oil after Turkish Petroleum acquired a stake in the BP-run Kirkuk oilfield.

As COP31 approaches in Antalya, Türkiye has an opportunity to highlight the critical issue of fragile states, which are often overlooked in climate action implementation, on the conference agenda.

The Turkish Parliament has admitted that its investigation into the 2016 coup attempt did not produce a legally valid final report, despite the government's long-standing blame on the Gülen movement and subsequent mass arrests.

Kurdish shopkeepers were hospitalized following an alleged racist mob attack in Istanbul, while a journalist was briefly detained for reporting on a separate alleged abduction of a pro-Kurdish party member.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi arrived in Ankara for an official visit at the invitation of President Tayyip Erdoğan, where leaders are expected to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.

A new framework law is set to be drafted soon in Turkey to advance the 'terror-free Türkiye' initiative, aiming to disarm the terrorist group PKK, following instructions from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Türkiye has provided humanitarian assistance to 85 countries and communities across five continents through operations coordinated by its Disaster and Emergency Management Authority.

After over a decade of planning, legal procedures, and public debate, construction has officially commenced on the Kadıköy Waterfront Mosque and Social Areas Project in Istanbul.

The chairperson of a new political party in Türkiye, Özgür Özel, has acknowledged the party's financial struggles but expressed confidence that they could achieve over 40% of votes in future elections during his first televised interview.

Turkish conglomerate Yıldız Holding has invested $1.25 million in Dataland, the artificial intelligence-powered digital art museum founded by internationally acclaimed media artist Refik Anadol.

Turkey, under President Erdogan, is reportedly pursuing an 'Ottoman Gambit' by divesting from US Treasuries, strengthening energy ties with Russia, and implementing tax reforms to attract investment, signaling a shift towards a new regional order.

The Cyprus branch of Turkey's opposition CHP party has defected to the newly formed 'New Party' by its former leader Ozgur Ozel, following numerous members of parliament and mayors across Turkey.

Turkish authorities have blocked access to the X (formerly Twitter) account of Deutsche Welle Turkish service reporter Alican Uludağ, citing national security and public order concerns.

Peugeot announced that it will commence the production of its Rifter light commercial vehicle in Türkiye starting from the third quarter of 2026.

Türkiye's exports to Syria saw a significant increase of 26.4% year-over-year in the first half of 2026, continuing a strong trade momentum with its southern neighbor.

Türkiye's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) plans to commemorate its 25th anniversary by launching a nationwide campaign to plant 25 million trees. This initiative aims to mark the party's founding with an environmental focus.

Lake Tuz, Türkiye's second-largest lake, has seen 12,800 flamingo chicks hatch this year, marking the highest number recorded in the past five years, according to experts.

Turkish media outlets have reported allegations that large quantities of untreated medical waste collected across Istanbul have been illegally buried instead of being properly sterilized and incinerated.

The Turkish Presidency’s Communications Directorate is leading efforts to combat terrorist propaganda and disinformation on social media. This initiative addresses issues that have significantly impacted the country's online environment.

The Turkish Parliament is set to begin its new session, focusing on legislation and regulations related to student amnesty and the 'terror-free Türkiye' initiative.

The Women and Democracy Foundation (KADEM) gathered judges, lawyers, academics, government officials, and civil society representatives in Istanbul to discuss proposed alimony reforms in Türkiye.

The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBITAK) has launched new initiatives to bolster clean technology startups in preparation for COP31.

Istanbul Airport has once again been recognized as Europe's busiest airport, recording an average of 1,623 daily flights between July 13-19.

New Party launched in Turkish politics by Özgür Özel

The Turkish Cypriot ruling coalition remained largely silent after the Turkish parliament rejected a bill that sought to rename northern Cyprus as the “Turkish Republic of Cyprus.”

Özgür Özel, the ousted leader of Turkey's main opposition CHP party, has formed a new political party, which is expected to become the second-largest in Turkey. This move follows a split within the existing opposition and aims to regroup the beleaguered Turkish opposition.

Turkey's broadcast regulator has launched an investigation into government-critical broadcaster Sözcü TV. The probe follows remarks on the channel that described Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa as a 'killer' and 'terrorist,' with authorities stating such language could harm relations with Syria.

Türkiye's job market is undergoing a transformation, moving away from the traditional 'I'll do any job' mentality towards a new era where job seekers emphasize 'I'll do it with AI,' reflecting the growing integration of artificial intelligence in various sectors.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's remarks on Türkiye's admission as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner have highlighted how this partnership advances Türkiye's long-term strategic goals in Asia.

Türkiye's Cappadocia region saw 256,777 tourists participate in hot air balloon tours during the first six months of the year, indicating a continued boom in the popular attraction.

Pakistan and several other Arab and Muslim countries have condemned Israeli Minister Ben Gvir's incursion into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. They described the act as unacceptable and a violation of the holy site.
A unique natural wonder, known as 'Louis XIV', features rare black roses that grow naturally in a specific region of Turkey, transforming from almost black to deep crimson due to local soil and climate.

Türkiye and Syria have signed an agreement to establish cultural centers in each other's countries, aiming to enhance cultural cooperation through language education and other initiatives.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a written statement on the 107th anniversary of the Erzurum Congress, a pivotal event in Türkiye’s fight for independence, emphasizing the importance of national unity.

Turkish film director Ezel Akay and his brother, musician Eren Kazım Akay, were detained in a drug operation carried out by gendarmerie teams in a northwestern province.

Türkiye is expected to expand cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in trade, economic relations, defense industry, and energy.

More than 10,000 individuals from 104 countries have applied to participate in the COP31 Türkiye Volunteer Program. The program aims to recruit 5,000 volunteers to support the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference.

Turkish customs authorities confiscated nearly TL 63 billion ($1.3 billion) worth of smuggled goods in the first six months of 2026, indicating a significant increase in anti-smuggling operations nationwide.

Türkiye's Parliament has approved a legislative package introducing stricter rules for novice drivers, including potential license cancellations.

Ozgur Ozel's new political party is generating excitement within Turkey's opposition ranks, but transforming this buzz into a formidable force capable of challenging President Erdogan will be a significant challenge.

A powerful storm swept across Istanbul, particularly affecting the city's European side, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life after weather authorities had issued warnings.

A Turkish court released Deutsche Welle Turkish service reporter Alican Uludağ under judicial supervision and with a travel ban after he was detained for approximately 25 hours over a social media post criticizing the country’s judicial system.

A new draft bill proposed by Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), which includes provisions for life imprisonment for serious offenses committed by individuals aged 15 and above, has received committee approval.

Antalya, Türkiye's Mediterranean tourism hub, has welcomed over 6.5 million foreign visitors since the beginning of the year, with hotels nearing full occupancy during the peak summer season.

Türkiye has laid the foundation for a new flagship data center, which the country states will enhance its digital sovereignty, cybersecurity resilience, and artificial intelligence capabilities.

Türkiye and Syria are actively working towards opening the Nusaybin-Qamishli border crossing 'as soon as possible'. This initiative aims to expand trade and strengthen regional transport corridors between the two neighboring countries.

Peace talks between Turkey and PKK fighters are advancing slowly, a year after a symbolic disarmament ceremony, with some observers hopeful for a successful outcome.

Excavations at the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium, known as the 'Ephesus of the Western Black Sea,' in Türkiye's northwestern Düzce province are expanding as preparations for its restoration begin.

Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler confirmed that Turkey is in talks with third countries regarding the future of its Russian-made S400 air defence systems, signaling potential efforts to resolve disputes with the United States.

Doruk Bulut, the head of the main opposition Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) branch in Istanbul’s Silivri district, was detained as part of an ongoing corruption investigation.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced that Türkiye has been admitted to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a dialogue partner.

Turkish Airlines is actively seeking acquisition opportunities in the aviation markets of Asia and South America. The airline aims to expand its global footprint through strategic purchases.

Türkiye has initiated a humanitarian aid campaign to deliver 30,000 food parcels to families in camps across northern Syria's Operation Euphrates Shield zone, accompanied by a message from President Erdoğan.

Türkiye has released the results of its 2026 Higher Education Institutions Exam, with students from Kartal Anadolu Imam Hatip High School and Kabataş Boys' High School among the top performers.