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Opposition lawmakers attempted to block Istanbul Chief Prosecutor Akin Gurlek from taking his oath in parliament, leading to physical altercations. Gurlek, appointed by President Erdogan, has presided over high-profile trials against opposition figures. The government insists the judiciary is independent amid ongoing political tensions.
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As of March 14, 2026, Turkey is managing a potential influx of refugees fleeing the escalating US-Israel war in Iran. Despite border restrictions and Iran limiting citizen departures, thousands cross daily. Turkey has contingency plans including buffer zones and camps for up to 90,000 people. Many Iranians remain in-country, sheltering or moving internally amid ongoing airstrikes and infrastructure threats.
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Eighteen days into the conflict, Iran has displaced up to 3.2 million people, with over 1,300 civilians killed. Neighboring countries, especially Turkey, are preparing for potential refugee influx amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes and regional instability.
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On April 7, 2026, three armed attackers engaged in a gunfight with Turkish police outside the Israeli consulate in Istanbul's Levent district. One attacker was killed, two wounded and captured. Two police officers sustained minor injuries. No Israeli diplomats were present, as diplomatic ties have been frozen since late 2023 following the Gaza conflict. The attackers reportedly had links to a religious extremist group, possibly ISIS.
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A gunfight outside Istanbul's main financial district resulted in one attacker killed and two wounded. Several suspects were detained, and authorities linked the attack to groups exploiting religion. The attack occurred during heightened tensions following Israel's withdrawal of diplomats from Turkey amid security concerns.