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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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Recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar and Gaza have failed to eliminate top figures, despite killing low-level operatives. The strikes have strained Qatar's mediation efforts, with Hamas claiming its leaders survived and emphasizing resilience amid ongoing conflict and hostage concerns.
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Following Israel's strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar, regional tensions escalate. Analysts warn Turkey could be targeted next, questioning NATO's protection. Ankara responds sharply, citing Israeli aggression and regional ambitions. The story highlights the fragile security landscape amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Syria.
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The US is set to deliver $6.7 billion in military equipment to Israel, including Apache helicopters and infantry vehicles, despite international criticism and stalled peace efforts. The sales, part of a 10-year agreement, will not be delivered for 2-3 years or longer, amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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On October 8, 2025, Turkish President Erdogan confirmed that US President Trump indicated the Halkbank sanctions issue is resolved, following their September 25 White House meeting. The leaders discussed lifting CAATSA sanctions and Turkey's return to the F-35 program, suspended since 2019 over Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missiles. Erdogan emphasized strengthening US-Turkey ties amid regional tensions.
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On Monday night in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron was blocked by police while trying to cross a street due to President Donald Trump's motorcade. Macron called Trump directly, joking about the delay, then walked 30 minutes to the French consulate. The call included discussions on Gaza and Qatar amid France's recent recognition of Palestinian statehood at the UN.
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As the UN turns 80, it struggles with record-breaking meetings, lengthy reports, and funding cuts. Meanwhile, the US pushes for a reformed global asylum system, citing abuse and fraud, amid rising tensions over immigration policies and international cooperation.
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Turkish Airlines announced plans to buy 75 Boeing long-haul aircraft and 150 MAX jets, following a meeting between Erdogan and Trump. The airline aims for deliveries between 2029 and 2034, amid ongoing negotiations over engine supplies and potential US fighter jet sales to Turkey.
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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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Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the safe arrival of 23 Malaysians detained by Israel after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The Malaysian government plans to raise Palestinian concerns at the upcoming ASEAN summit, where US President Trump will also attend, amid regional protests and diplomatic balancing.
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Hamas has responded positively to US-led peace proposals, prompting international support for a potential ceasefire in Gaza. Israel prepares for negotiations, while ongoing violence continues. The US, Egypt, and Qatar express optimism, but key issues like disarmament remain unresolved.
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Pro-Palestinian protests occurred across Turkey and Europe on the second anniversary of Hamas's 2023 attack on Israel. Demonstrators condemned the Gaza conflict, called for Palestinian solidarity, and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with large gatherings in Istanbul, Ankara, and Amsterdam amid regional tensions.
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Recent negotiations between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces have resulted in an agreement to integrate the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. The talks, which stalled earlier, now focus on mechanisms for merging military and civil institutions amid ongoing regional tensions and clashes in northeast Syria. The process aims to stabilize the region and address longstanding disputes over autonomy and decentralization.
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After two years of captivity, 20 hostages were released overnight, marking a significant step in Gaza-Israel peace efforts. The agreement, facilitated by US President Trump and regional mediators, includes a ceasefire, troop withdrawals, and prisoner exchanges. International leaders have welcomed the development, emphasizing hopes for long-term peace.
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Israel announced a ceasefire with Hamas after cabinet approval of Trump's plan, leading to troop withdrawals and heavy shelling reports. Palestinians began moving north amid ongoing violence, with questions remaining about disarmament and governance in Gaza. The ceasefire marks a significant step in ending two years of conflict.
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Negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh involve Israel, Hamas, and mediators, focusing on a 20-point US plan to end the Gaza war, release hostages, and disarm Hamas. Key figures include Jared Kushner, Ron Dermer, and Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed. Progress is reported, but significant issues remain.
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On October 13-14, 2025, US President Donald Trump secured a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, ending two years of war in Gaza. The deal included the release of 20 surviving hostages by Hamas and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. Trump signed the agreement with regional leaders in Egypt, launching a phased peace plan involving governance reforms and international oversight.
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Turkey has signed a deal with Britain to purchase 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets for £8 billion, with plans to acquire additional aircraft from Qatar and Oman. The move aims to bolster Turkey’s air power amid regional tensions, and follows Ankara’s diplomatic efforts to increase its influence in the Middle East and NATO.
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Leaders gathered in Egypt for a Gaza ceasefire summit, but Israel's Netanyahu did not attend due to regional opposition and diplomatic tensions. Turkey actively worked to block his participation, citing regional support and diplomatic efforts. The summit aims to support Gaza's ceasefire, excluding Israel and Hamas.
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The US, UK, and regional actors are coordinating a complex plan to establish a transitional Palestinian government in Gaza, overseen by a Board of Peace chaired by President Trump. The process involves regional negotiations, Palestinian diaspora candidates, and ongoing tensions with Hamas, amid international aid and security concerns.
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A ceasefire brokered by US President Trump has temporarily halted hostilities in Gaza, but key issues remain unresolved. Disagreements over Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal, and governance threaten the durability of peace. Leaders signed a declaration in Egypt, but future stability depends on implementation of complex conditions.
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US officials visit Israel amid ongoing efforts to recover remaining hostages and bodies from Gaza. Ceasefire compliance and negotiations for a broader peace deal are central, with delays and accusations of violations complicating the process. The US aims to support Israel and coordinate international efforts.
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Tufan Erhurman, leader of the centre-left Republican Turkish Party, won a decisive victory in Northern Cyprus, defeating incumbent Ersin Tatar. Erhurman advocates restarting negotiations for a federal reunification, contrasting Tatar’s support for a two-state solution backed by Turkey. The election signals a potential shift in Cyprus peace efforts amid ongoing regional tensions.
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On October 22, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an advisory opinion stating Israel must facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza, including allowing UNRWA operations. The court found Israel's claims that UNRWA was infiltrated by Hamas unsubstantiated. Israel rejected the ruling as politically motivated. The decision follows a fragile US-brokered ceasefire and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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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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On October 27, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a £8 billion ($10.7 billion) deal for Turkey to acquire 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. This deal strengthens NATO's southeastern flank and supports Turkey's interim air defense needs until its indigenous KAAN fighter jet becomes operational around 2028. Turkey also seeks to acquire additional jets from Qatar and Oman and aims to rejoin the U.S. F-35 program.
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Cypriot authorities have prosecuted several individuals, including Israeli businessman Shimon Aykout, for illegal property development in the breakaway north. Aykout pleaded guilty to 40 charges related to building and selling Greek Cypriot properties, highlighting ongoing tensions over property rights stemming from the 1974 division of Cyprus. The case underscores the contentious nature of property ownership and enforcement in the region, with recent sentences serving as a warning to illegal developers.
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US President Donald Trump thanked Qatar's emir and prime minister for their role in securing a Gaza ceasefire during a refueling stop at Al Udeid Air Base. Qatar has been a key mediator in indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, with ongoing discussions on security arrangements and the future of Gaza amid continued violence.
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Israeli forces launched strikes on Gaza, targeting areas near Khan Younis and Gaza City, with no immediate casualties reported. The escalation follows the return of three Israeli captives' remains, amid ongoing exchanges of bodies and hostages. Israeli and Palestinian forces continue to clash, testing the fragile ceasefire brokered by the US.
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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.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Turkey and reaffirmed Germany's support for Israel's right to self-defense amid tensions with Turkish President Erdogan. Erdogan criticized Israel's actions in Gaza, accusing it of genocide and seeking to suppress Palestinians through famine and violence. The visit highlighted NATO tensions and differing views on the Gaza conflict.
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German Chancellor Merz met with Turkish President Erdogan, emphasizing strategic partnership. The visit follows Turkey's recent purchase of Eurofighter jets from the UK and Germany's support for Turkey's role in a European defense initiative. Disputes over human rights and Gaza remain unresolved.
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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized ongoing efforts to disarm Hamas and demilitarize Gaza, amid US-led international negotiations excluding Turkey. Israel warns of stronger military responses if ceasefire violations continue, while the US advances plans for an international force to oversee disarmament, with disagreements over Turkish participation.
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Turkey, along with several Muslim nations, is working to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza to oversee ceasefire implementation and governance. Despite Israeli opposition, Turkey emphasizes Palestinian self-governance and increased humanitarian aid amid ongoing violence and ceasefire violations.
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Recent reports indicate the US is preparing to establish a military base in Damascus to support a potential security agreement between Syria and Israel. Syrian President Sharaa seeks a security deal with Israeli troop withdrawal, amid ongoing negotiations and regional tensions. Sharaa's international legitimacy is rising, complicating Israel's strategic calculus.
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Turkey issued arrest warrants for 37 Israeli officials, accusing them of genocide in Gaza. Israel dismisses the charges as a PR stunt. The dispute escalates tensions amid ongoing Gaza conflict, with Turkey seeking a role in postwar security arrangements despite Israeli opposition.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the White House, the first Syrian leader to do so since independence. The meeting with President Donald Trump focused on lifting sanctions, Syria’s integration into a US-led coalition against ISIS, and a potential security pact involving Israel. The US suspended Caesar Act sanctions for six months, signaling a shift in regional alliances and Syria’s international rehabilitation.
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Turkish opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu has been indicted on charges including running a criminal organization, bribery, and fraud. The indictment, which could lead to over 2,300 years in prison if convicted, is seen by critics as politically motivated. The case has sparked widespread protests and legal scrutiny.
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On November 11, 2025, a Turkish C-130 military cargo plane crashed near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border shortly after departing Azerbaijan en route to Turkey. All 20 personnel aboard, including flight crew, were killed. Search and rescue operations were conducted by Turkish, Georgian, and Azerbaijani authorities. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
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Ukrainian forces are engaged in heavy fighting across multiple regions amid ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes. Kyiv reports advances and setbacks, while international efforts focus on sanctions and diplomacy. The conflict remains highly active as Ukraine seeks military and economic support today, Nov 20, 2025.
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On November 22, 2025, Australia and Turkey resolved a multi-year dispute over hosting the 2026 UN climate summit, COP31. Turkey will host the summit in Antalya, while Australia will preside over negotiations and lead pre-COP events focused on Pacific climate financing. The deal ends a deadlock that risked defaulting the summit to Germany and drew criticism from Pacific nations.
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Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will meet at the UN peacekeeping envoy's residence to discuss reunification efforts. Erhurman, elected in October, aims to revive stalled negotiations, while Turkey's Erdogan advocates a two-state solution, complicating prospects for reunification.
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Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, once a US-designated terrorist, has visited Washington, marking a historic shift. He met with Trump, discussed anti-ISIS cooperation, sanctions relief, and regional stability. Syria's entry into the US-led coalition signals a major change in US-Syria relations amid ongoing regional tensions.
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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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In late November and early December 2025, Russia intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Ternopil, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas, causing deaths and injuries. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy engaged in diplomatic efforts with U.S. and European leaders to revive peace negotiations, despite Russia's refusal to participate directly in talks.
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Russian missile strikes in Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including children, and injured dozens. The attack targeted residential buildings, causing fires and hazardous chlorine levels. Ukraine plans to raise the incident at the UN, amid ongoing conflict and missile exchanges across Ukraine.
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Multiple sources report a US-backed 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, involving territorial concessions, military reductions, and neutrality. The plan, drawn up with Russian consultation, faces Ukrainian resistance amid ongoing Russian missile strikes and diplomatic tensions. The proposal reflects Russia's maximalist demands, with uncertain Ukrainian approval, as fighting continues.
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The UN Security Council approved a resolution supporting a multinational force to oversee Gaza's ceasefire and security, including training a Palestinian police force and demilitarization efforts. Israel and Palestine respond differently, amid ongoing tensions and military actions.
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The US has proposed a 28-point peace plan involving territorial concessions by Ukraine, military reductions, and Russia's reintegration into the global economy. Zelensky plans to discuss it with Trump, amid skepticism from European allies and ongoing fighting on the ground. The plan aims to end the conflict but faces significant opposition.
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U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Rubio and envoy Witkoff, are engaging Ukraine and European allies in Geneva to discuss a 28-point peace plan proposed by Trump. The plan involves territorial concessions and military limits for Ukraine, with deadlines set for Kyiv's response amid ongoing Russian advances and international skepticism.