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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.
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This week, Hong Kong hosts a series of high-profile culinary events, including a four-hands dinner at Restaurant Petrus, a sushi omakase takeover by Tokyo’s Nogizaka Shin, and a seasonal Chinese menu at Tai Kwun. Dubai’s City Walk also offers diverse casual dining options. These events highlight Hong Kong’s vibrant food culture.
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On October 10, 2025, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck offshore near Manay town in Davao Oriental, Philippines, at a shallow depth of 10 km. The quake caused damage to buildings, hospital evacuations, and two deaths. A tsunami warning was issued for six coastal provinces but later lifted after small waves were detected. The region is still recovering from a deadly 6.9 quake on September 30.
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Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, during his U.S. visit, reiterated his criticism of the Russian Orthodox Church's support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He also discussed issues related to religious and political tensions, environmental advocacy, and the status of Orthodox communities abroad.
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On September 23, 2025, the US Secret Service uncovered and dismantled a large network of over 300 SIM servers and 100,000 active SIM cards within 35 miles of the United Nations in New York. The network, likely operated by nation-state actors, had the capacity to disrupt cellular networks, send encrypted messages to criminal groups, and potentially cripple emergency communications during the UN General Assembly.
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Alex O'Keefe, a Black screenwriter and Democratic speechwriter, was forcibly removed and handcuffed by MTA police on a Metro-North train after a dispute over his sitting position. The incident, captured on video, raises concerns over racial profiling and police conduct in New York transit. O'Keefe alleges racial bias, while authorities cite rule violations. The event has sparked social media outrage and discussions on racial justice.
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U.S. President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu are pushing a 20-point ceasefire plan for Gaza, demanding Hamas disarm and accept a transitional government. Hamas is reviewing the proposal, which includes hostage exchanges and Israeli troop withdrawals. The plan faces internal Palestinian and Hamas divisions, with negotiations ongoing as violence continues.
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Over the past days, multiple airline incidents have occurred, including emergency landings due to smoke, medical emergencies causing flight diversions, and disputes over mobility aid policies. These events underscore ongoing safety, technical, and accessibility challenges faced by airlines globally, affecting passengers' safety and rights.
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Hamas is expected to provisionally accept Donald Trump's Gaza ceasefire proposal, contingent on key revisions. Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey are mediating, but divisions within Hamas and skepticism about Israel's compliance remain. The US and EU urge acceptance, while Israel's Netanyahu signals continued military presence. The plan aims to end the Gaza conflict.
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Multiple concerts in Europe and Turkey have been canceled or withdrawn due to artists' pro-Israel stances amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. The cancellations include bands and singers like Disturbed, Morrissey, and Robbie Williams, citing safety concerns and political protests. The controversy highlights the cultural fallout from the Gaza war.
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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.
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A Turkish court has ordered a man to pay support for his cats in a divorce settlement, setting a precedent for pet care in legal disputes. Meanwhile, UAE courts have awarded custody and financial support to a woman after a divorce marked by neglect and abuse. Japan introduces new child support laws to ensure stability for children post-divorce.
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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.
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Pope Leo, the first American pope, is visiting Turkey and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2. The trip commemorates the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and includes a prayer at the Beirut port blast site. The visit aims to promote interfaith dialogue and regional peace amid ongoing tensions.
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Multiple reports and a tribunal accuse Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, citing systematic destruction of education, military support from Western states, and international complicity. The UN and independent tribunals highlight global failures to prevent ongoing atrocities, with calls for accountability and sanctions. The situation remains critical as humanitarian conditions worsen.
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Negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without a deal, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Pakistan blames Afghanistan for harboring militants and seeks to curb cross-border violence, while Afghanistan denies sheltering militant groups and criticizes Islamabad’s approach. Tensions remain high as both sides threaten renewed hostilities.
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Israeli forces continue demolitions and conduct strikes in Gaza, despite a ceasefire. Palestinian casualties rise, rescue efforts recover bodies, and aid access remains restricted. Israel and US discuss Hamas fighters' deportation, while Israeli legislation targets media and prisoners. The region remains volatile.
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A Turkish-German family staying in Istanbul died after suspected poisoning, with investigations now focusing on pesticide exposure. The incident has drawn national attention, prompting government statements and hotel evacuations. The case highlights concerns over food safety and pesticide use in Turkey.
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A UN report shows Jakarta has become the world's most populous city with 42 million residents, surpassing Tokyo. The shift results from new methodology and rapid urban growth in Asia, with Dhaka projected to become the largest city by 2050. Climate and migration are key drivers.
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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.
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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.
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Pope Leo XIV arrived in Turkey to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, emphasizing Christian unity and peace. He met with Turkish leaders, celebrated the Nicene Creed, and will visit Lebanon to support Christian communities and seek justice for the Beirut blast victims.
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Pope Leo XIV marked the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed in Turkey, urging Christian leaders to unite and promote peace amid ongoing conflicts. His visit highlights efforts to foster dialogue among denominations and address global tensions, including in Lebanon and the Middle East.
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On November 29, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. pontiff, visited Istanbul's Blue Mosque, touring the site with Muslim leaders but declining to pray visibly. His visit, part of his first overseas trip, also includes meetings with Christian leaders and a Catholic Mass in Turkey before heading to Lebanon.