-
As of September 24, 2025, Turkey's main opposition, the Republican People's Party (CHP), led by Ozgur Ozel, faces intensified legal challenges. Courts are reviewing allegations of vote rigging at the CHP's 2023 congress, threatening to unseat Ozel. The crackdown includes arrests of CHP members, notably Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, fueling protests and political tension ahead of the 2028 elections.
-
Turkish authorities are investigating irregularities in public tenders managed by BKM, Turkey's main payment processing network, with allegations of bid rigging, embezzlement, and fraud. Several suspects, including former officials, are in custody following an internal audit and criminal complaint, with public losses exceeding 2.4 million dollars.
-
As of late October 2025, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu faces new espionage charges linked to alleged ties between his campaign and a businessman arrested for foreign intelligence activities. Imamoglu, detained since March on corruption allegations he denies, was questioned publicly for the first time in seven months amid protests. The opposition CHP views this as part of a broader government crackdown ahead of the 2028 election.
-
Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed an £8bn agreement with Turkey for 20 Typhoon fighter jets, marking the largest UK fighter jet order in nearly two decades. The deal supports thousands of British jobs, boosts NATO cooperation, and concludes long-running negotiations, with deliveries expected from 2030. Critics highlight human rights concerns in Turkey.
-
Turkish courts have acquitted four journalists, including AFP's Yasin Akgul, who were arrested during protests over Istanbul's opposition mayor. The decision highlights ongoing issues with press freedom amid political tensions and protests sparked by opposition figures' arrests.
-
On November 27-29, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, made his inaugural overseas trip to Turkey, marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. He met President Erdogan, engaged with Catholic and Orthodox leaders, and promoted Christian unity, interfaith dialogue, and peace amid regional conflicts. The visit also highlighted Turkey's role in hosting refugees and mediating regional tensions.
-
Pope Leo arrived in Turkey on his first international trip, emphasizing Turkey's role as a mediator in conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine. He called for dialogue, peace, and Christian-Muslim unity, while addressing issues such as women's rights and regional stability. The visit marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea.