July
The day began with a significant focus on legal actions against the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). Reports detailed a widespread operation in Izmir, leading to arrest warrants for 157 individuals, including former Izmir Metropolitan Mayor Tunç Soyer. This development quickly became a prominent topic across various media outlets, drawing reactions from other political parties. As the day progressed, media attention increasingly shifted to the controversy surrounding a provocative caricature, which continued from the previous day. President Erdoğan and other high-ranking officials condemned it as a "vile provocation," vowing legal action and leading to further arrests and debates over media freedom. Lawyers argued that the measures against the magazine constituted torture. In the evening, reports also emerged regarding a substantial increase in natural gas prices, as announced by the energy regulatory authority.
The day was marked by deepening legal actions targeting media and opposition figures. The investigation into Leman magazine escalated significantly, culminating in the arrests of four staff members, a direct continuation of previous days' focus on press freedom. Concurrently, the corruption probe in Izmir intensified, drawing a defiant response from CHP leader Özgür Özel, who himself faced a new legal inquiry, reflecting ongoing political tensions. Separately, multiple earthquakes, particularly a 4.3 magnitude tremor in Bursa/Gemlik, were widely reported, being felt in Istanbul and triggering expert warnings. Later, an airplane crash on the Bayburt-Erzurum border also became a prominent news item. Persistent wildfires across the country remained a concern, and the passing of Turkey's first Climate Law in the evening provided a legislative development.
03.07.2025
Thursday

The Day of Profit and Disarmament

The day's media attention consistently highlighted the Gaza conflict, with Daily Sabah describing Israeli actions as "one of the cruelest genocides" and Bianet reporting a UN rapporteur's assertion that global companies profit from Israel's actions, reinforcing this narrative. Concurrently, domestic legal issues continued from previous days; the Izmir investigation saw increasing arrest numbers, while the LeMan magazine case, concerning caricature arrests and RTÜK penalties, continued to draw international alarm over press freedom. A significant new development emerged in the evening with DEM Party statements and OdaTV reporting specific dates for PKK disarmament, indicating potential new political negotiations. Economic reports on inflation and pension increases also remained a notable domestic focus throughout the day.
The day witnessed a significant escalation in legal processes targeting political figures.
The ongoing İzmir Metropolitan Municipality investigation culminated in the arrest of Mayor Tunç Soyer in the afternoon, following earlier reports of individuals appearing before judges in connection with the probe.
Concurrently, a new legal front opened with an operation against Manavgat Municipality, leading to the detention of its mayor.
Earlier, an indictment seeking a prison sentence and political ban for Ekrem İmamoğlu was finalized.
Meanwhile, reports persisted regarding the PKK's intent to begin laying down arms next week, continuing a recent security development.
International attention remained on Gaza, with updated casualty figures and a reported positive response from Hamas to a ceasefire proposal.
The passing of prominent journalist Nihat Genç also received widespread media coverage.
The day's editorial focus centered on intensified legal actions against opposition figures, culminating in the arrest of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Muhittin Böcek in the evening, following earlier detentions of Adana and Adıyaman mayors. These actions continued the pattern of ongoing corruption probes against CHP-led municipalities seen in previous days. Concurrently, political rhetoric escalated throughout the day; President Erdoğan made strong statements regarding the opposition, while CHP leader Özgür Özel responded with challenges concerning the integrity of the ballot box and democratic processes. A new development emerged in the afternoon with the detention of journalist Timur Soykan, adding concerns about press freedom to the ongoing legal scrutiny. Updates on widespread wildfires and multiple earthquakes also featured in the news coverage.
The day's media attention began with the ongoing legal scrutiny of opposition figures, particularly the Antalya Mayor, whose defense statement denying bribery accusations emerged. This continued the pattern of corruption probes against municipalities seen in previous days. A significant political development unfolded with the DEM Party delegation's meeting with Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island, marking a potential new phase in the Kurdish "solution process," further underscored by the announcement of President Erdoğan's scheduled meeting with the DEM Party delegation tomorrow. Tragically, in the afternoon, news broke of five soldiers martyred due to methane gas in Northern Iraq, leading to widespread condolences from political leaders. Concurrently, journalist Timur Soykan, previously detained, was released; however, an investigation initiated against CHP leader Özgür Özel in the evening maintained the focus on legal pressures against the opposition.
07.07.2025
Monday

The City Head Departed Office

The day's significant developments began with updates on military casualties due to methane gas exposure in the Claw-Lock area, with the number rising throughout the morning. Concurrently, the first hearing of the Kartalkaya Hotel fire case commenced, drawing media attention. Politically, the highly anticipated meeting between President Erdoğan and the DEM Party delegation, including the İmralı delegation, started and later concluded, signaling ongoing engagement regarding the Kurdish issue. This political dialogue unfolded as President Erdoğan also filed a substantial lawsuit against CHP leader Özgür Özel, adding to the legal scrutiny of opposition figures. By late afternoon, a major event unfolded as Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Muhittin Böcek was removed from office, extending the pattern of actions against opposition-led local governments seen in recent days. Further arrests in the Manavgat Municipality investigation and changes within the Istanbul Police Department also reflected continued legal and political pressure.
08.07.2025
Tuesday

The Day the City Heads Fell

The day's significant coverage centered on an intensifying legal campaign targeting opposition figures and municipalities. Early reports confirmed the removal of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Muhittin Böcek, while Adana's Zeydan Karalar and Adıyaman's Abdurrahman Tutdere were sent to the courthouse for ongoing investigations. This pattern of scrutiny escalated through the afternoon, with Manavgat Mayor Niyazi Nefi Kara, Adana Metropolitan Mayor Zeydan Karalar, and Büyükçekmece Deputy Mayor Ahmet Şahin all being arrested. These actions follow a trend of increased pressure on opposition-led local governments observed in recent days.
Concurrently, a notable political alignment emerged as MHP leader Bahçeli supported CHP leader Özgür Özel's call for live broadcasts of trials. Developments concerning the Kurdish issue continued, including a government ally stating PKK disarmament is "only a matter of time," even as Sözcü TV was blacked out in the evening.
Turkish media coverage on July 9 centered on two principal developments. Morning reports extensively covered Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned PKK leader, issuing a video message after 26 years, advocating for "democratic politics" and "social peace," and urging the PKK to disarm. This continued the previous days' focus on the Kurdish issue and a potential "solution process," with government figures also hinting at positive disarmament news. Concurrently, news emerged regarding the potential live broadcasting of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) trials, particularly Mayor İmamoğlu's cases, signaling increased transparency or pressure.
The afternoon saw an intensification of legal pressure on opposition figures, building on earlier patterns. Adana Metropolitan Mayor Zeydan Karalar and Büyükçekmece Deputy Mayor Ahmet Şahin were suspended from duty. This led to defiant statements from figures like İmamoğlu and former Izmir Mayor Tunç Soyer. Late in the day, a significant government personnel change occurred with Fahrettin Altun's replacement by Burhanettin Duran as Head of Communications.
10.07.2025
Thursday

The Disarmament Delegation Traveled

The day began with the detention of Şile Municipality Mayor Özgür Kabadayı, continuing the pattern of legal pressures on local government officials. As the day progressed, another significant development unfolded with the suspension of Adıyaman Mayor Abdurrahman Tutdere, further escalating the scrutiny on opposition-led municipalities. Concurrently, the long-standing Kurdish issue saw a tangible progression, with a delegation departing for Sulaymaniyah to witness a reported PKK disarmament ceremony. This marked a concrete step following discussions around Abdullah Öcalan's recent video message. AK Party Spokesperson Ömer Çelik later detailed the three main categories of this disarmament process. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality corruption probe also saw the release of a key informant. Towards the evening, reports also confirmed a meeting between President Erdoğan and Devlet Bahçeli.
Turkish media overwhelmingly prioritized the PKK disarmament on July 11. The morning saw reports of a delegation traveling to Iraq for the ceremony, framed as a "historic day." By late morning, initial confirmations of the PKK laying down arms emerged, accompanied by first images and statements from AK Party and MHP leaders, who confirmed a "critical threshold" had been passed. The process culminated with reports of weapons being burned in Sulaymaniyah. Concurrently, a significant development occurred with PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan's statement identifying Devlet Bahçeli as the sole statesman after Atatürk, which garnered prominent attention. This was followed by high-level political consultations. Separately, the death of President Erdoğan's Chief Advisor, Yiğit Bulut, received significant coverage throughout the morning. Later in the day, legal scrutiny on opposition figures continued, with the Ekrem İmamoğlu corruption trial adjourned and a new investigation launched into CHP leader Özgür Özel, alongside release requests for Selahattin Demirtaş and Figen Yüksekdağ.
12.07.2025
Saturday

The Terror Era's Close Proclaimed

Turkish media on July 12 continued its intense focus on the PKK disarmament process, building on the previous day's reports of weapons being laid down. Morning headlines emphasized the initial groups surrendering arms, with public sentiment expressing joy for a "Turkey without terror".
By late morning, anticipation built around President Erdoğan's "historic speech," where he declared the 47-year terror problem was nearing its end, heralding a new chapter for Türkiye. Major political parties, including AK Party, MHP, and DEM, reportedly affirmed their commitment to this path. Throughout the afternoon, discussions continued on the implications of this "farewell to arms," with Pervin Buldan responding to Erdoğan's "triple alliance" declaration, and Ahmet Türk offering thanks. International congratulatory calls to Erdoğan further underscored the perceived shift. Separately, the funeral of Presidential Chief Advisor Yiğit Bulut was covered, alongside reports of TRT board changes.
13.07.2025
Sunday

The Mayors' Legal Bindings

The day's headlines continued to feature the evolving discourse surrounding the PKK disarmament process, with PKK leader Öcalan proposing a "win-win" democratic solution. Discussions also persisted around President Erdoğan's comments on an "AKP-MHP-DEM Party" alliance, drawing responses from political parties. However, editorial focus shifted significantly throughout the afternoon to escalating municipal corruption allegations. Prominently, the Şile Municipality investigation saw a request for the detention of Mayor Özgür Kabadayı and four managers, following earlier reports of video evidence. Concurrently, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality corruption probe advanced with the seizure of market vouchers and confessions from a key figure. This continued a trend of legal pressure on local governance seen in preceding days. Separately, a fatal fire in Ankara garnered attention, with investigations focusing on alarm system failures and resulting in the contractor's arrest.
The media focus on July 14 centered on the impending July 15 anniversary, with preparations for commemorative events intensifying throughout the day, notably the "Longest Night" epic performance at the Presidential Complex. This national narrative was accompanied by discussions of lessons from the 2016 coup attempt and the Justice Minister's remarks on Turkey's solitary fight against FETÖ. Concurrently, municipal legal developments continued to unfold. Şile Mayor Özgür Kabadayı was arrested, while Esenyurt Mayor Ahmet Özer, previously detained, was released. Later in the day, Antalya Mayor Muhittin Böcek was hospitalized amidst a bribery probe and subsequently taken to prison. Separately, the ongoing PKK disarmament process saw a critical development with Qandil issuing a warning to Öcalan regarding his call for dissolution, and the DEM Party denying any "triple alliance" with other parties.
The 9th anniversary of the July 15 coup attempt dominated Turkish media, with the focus intensifying throughout the day. Morning reports detailed new anti-FETÖ operations, including arrests for exam irregularities and asset seizures from businesses like Hakmar and Tatbak. Concurrently, municipal corruption investigations, a prominent theme from prior days, continued, highlighted by a "driver operation" in Istanbul and a courthouse bribery scandal. As the day progressed, official commemorations took center stage. President Erdoğan and ministers emphasized national unity and a "terror-free Turkey" in their messages, reflecting on Fethullahism’s legacy. By evening, Erdoğan’s statements underscored the persistent nature of the anti-FETÖ campaign, declaring the fight would continue and those responsible would "pay the price," reinforcing the government's long-term resolve.
Turkish media on July 16 saw a notable shift in editorial priorities throughout the day. The morning began with continued focus on judicial and administrative actions against local politicians, notably Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu's third hearing and Şile Mayor Özgür Kabadayı's suspension from duty, building on themes from previous days. By late morning, two major developments emerged: the DEM Party's Imrali Delegation commenced a significant dialogue, first with the Justice Minister and later with MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli, initiating talks for a "Solution Commission." Simultaneously, reports of Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian military headquarters in Damascus became prominent, escalating into a central foreign policy concern. The afternoon brought the verdict in İmamoğlu's case—a 1 year 8 month prison sentence, though without an immediate political ban, prompting public rallies. Diplomatic activity intensified with FM Hakan Fidan urging international intervention regarding Syria and Turkey signing seven strategic agreements with the UAE. The day concluded with the Turkish Parliament officially condemning Israel's attacks on Syria.
17.07.2025
Thursday

Damascus Burns, Dialogue Extends

Morning reports highlighted ongoing migrant smuggling operations and tragic events like the Iraq shopping mall fire, alongside continuing domestic discussions around Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu's legal case and new FETÖ allegations. By mid-morning, editorial focus shifted to Turkey's key role in a Syria ceasefire and parliamentary condemnation of Israeli actions. The afternoon saw a significant development: President Erdoğan held discussions with Syrian leader Ahmed Sharaa regarding escalating Israeli aggression, a continuation of the previous day's focus on Damascus strikes. Concurrently, the İmralı Delegation continued its political dialogue, visiting CHP leader Özgür Özel to discuss peace and social integration, extending the previous day's "Solution Commission" talks. Late in the day, Erdoğan intensified his rhetoric, stating Israel poses the biggest threat to regional peace.
18.07.2025
Friday

Demirtaş's Door Remained Shut

Turkish media continued to prioritize the ongoing "solution process" and its legal ramifications. Morning reports highlighted preparations for a commission and discussions on necessary legal steps following the PKK's disarmament. Concurrently, a significant wave of municipal corruption investigations deepened, with indictments prepared for İzmir Mayor Tunç Soyer and new operations targeting the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. As the day progressed, the central development related to the "solution process" emerged: the prominent rejection of Selahattin Demirtaş's request for release. This decision directly impacted ongoing dialogues concerning political prisoners and post-disarmament measures. Foreign policy also remained a key focus, marked by President Erdoğan's discussions with Vladimir Putin concerning the Ukraine conflict and Syria, followed by Minister Fidan's engagement with his US counterpart on regional tensions. Late in the day, severe floods in Ankara received considerable attention.
Turkish media sustained its focus on intertwined domestic and regional developments. The day began with continued reports on judicial proceedings concerning the "solution process," notably the rejection of Selahattin Demirtaş's appeal, echoing previous days' emphasis. Concurrently, attention remained on Syria, with reports of a ceasefire in Suwayda evolving into concerns over attacks on peaceful protests and the broader impact on Turkey's "solution process." A significant domestic legislative development emerged as the Olive Grove Law passed parliament, sparking widespread concern over its environmental implications. Later in the day, the passing of former CHP leader Altan Öymen became a dominant, widely reported event across major outlets, marking a somber moment in political news.
The 51st anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation served as a central national focus, marked by messages from parliamentary leadership, the President, and the main opposition leader. President Erdoğan subsequently visited the TRNC, urging international recognition. Domestically, discussions continued on the "solution process," with opposition leader Özgür Özel criticizing President Erdoğan's approach, while the MIT head initiated visits to political parties for a 'Terror-free Turkey' initiative, building on prior security dialogues. International attention remained on Gaza, featuring reports of Israeli actions and a dramatic claim regarding Netanyahu's alleged poisoning. The day also observed the 10th anniversary of the Suruç Massacre and saw a significant fatal bus accident in Sivas.
21.07.2025
Monday

Normalization's Broadening Steps

The day's Turkish media coverage centered predominantly on the evolving "solution" or "normalization" process. Morning headlines highlighted MIT Head İbrahim Kalın's significant visit to MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli, initiating key political interactions. This outreach expanded in the early afternoon with Kalın's visit to the pro-Kurdish DEM Party, indicating a broader engagement. Discussions persisted regarding PKK disarmament, with President Erdoğan citing İmralı's support and Vice President Yılmaz reaffirming the "Terror-Free Turkey" objective. Later, MHP leader Bahçeli's proposal for Alevi and Kurdish presidential assistants garnered considerable attention. Concurrently, Istanbul's international diplomatic role gained prominence with reports of upcoming Russia-Ukraine peace talks. News also covered ongoing Gaza conflict developments and escalating forest fires in the Sakarya-Bilecik region.
Turkish media coverage on July 22 focused significantly on international relations, with President Erdoğan issuing strong remarks on Gaza, asserting that Netanyahu had surpassed Hitler. Reports highlighted the US and Israel's rejection of a multi-country peace call, alongside developments on US-mediated Israel-Syria talks and Minister Fidan's warnings against regional destabilization.
Domestically, ongoing judicial discussions continued to feature prominently, including criticisms referencing the 'white toros' era and the Constitutional Court's rejection of a CHP appeal. Political developments, such as the Republican People's Party's activities and Ekrem İmamoğlu's call for a rally, also gained attention. Simultaneously, extensive forest fires and severe heatwaves persisted across multiple provinces, remaining a consistent high-priority news item.
23.07.2025
Wednesday

The Forest Workers Lost to Fire

The day began with Turkish media focusing on regional security, particularly the potential for confrontation between Turkey and Israel in Syria, alongside the progress of Turkey's Eurofighter jet acquisition with the UK. Domestic reports highlighted severe heat warnings and ongoing legal developments, including the Justice Minister addressing release claims. As the day progressed, protests against Israel at a defense fair and Syria's request for Turkish support also gained attention. However, in the late afternoon and evening, editorial focus shifted dramatically to the tragic forest fire in Eskişehir. Multiple outlets reported the mounting death toll of forest workers caught in the flames, quickly establishing this as the primary national story, superseding earlier foreign policy and domestic concerns.
Turkish media on July 24 continued to prioritize the severe environmental challenges, with wildfires persisting and spreading, notably from Sakarya to Bilecik and then to Afyon. The human toll remained a central focus, as the nation mourned additional forest worker deaths from the Eskişehir fire. Concurrently, the country grappled with intensifying extreme heat, reaching a record 49.1 degrees in 38 provinces, impacting water resources and prompting public adaptations. A significant international event emerged in the morning with reports of a Russian plane crash claiming 50 lives in Amur. By the late afternoon and evening, editorial focus expanded significantly to France's announcement to officially recognize Palestine as a state, a development widely covered across multiple outlets. Domestic political discussions included Ekrem İmamoğlu's account of a past confrontation and messages on the Lausanne Treaty anniversary.
25.07.2025
Friday

The Blazing Land Intensifies

The day's media in Turkey continued its strong focus on environmental crises, with forest fires escalating significantly. New outbreaks in Antalya drew extensive coverage, particularly as flames neared ancient historical sites, prompting declarations of disaster zones in affected provinces. Reports detailed the human cost, including casualties and widespread damage, alongside continued alerts on record-breaking heatwaves causing infrastructural strains and water shortages. Concurrently, domestic political and judicial developments unfolded, including arrests linked to a rally and ongoing discussions regarding the "Terror-Free Turkey Commission." By the evening, editorial attention shifted prominently to foreign policy, specifically Turkey's engagement in Syria. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan issued a clear warning to the SDF regarding the presence of armed groups, underscoring Turkey's security concerns and emphasizing the need for agreements with the central Syrian government.
26.07.2025
Saturday

The Gates Opened, The Summit Called

Turkish media on July 26 maintained a high focus on the persistent heatwave and escalating forest fires, with new outbreaks and reports of record temperatures, including Silopi breaking a historical high on the previous day. Concurrently, a significant domestic development unfolded with news of prisoner releases from İmralı, including associates of Öcalan, sparking renewed political commentary regarding the “solution process” and reactions from various political figures. In the afternoon, the political landscape further evolved with the official opening of Ekrem İmamoğlu’s candidacy office. Foreign policy discussions also gained momentum throughout the day, particularly with reports of US-mediated talks between Syria and Israel. By evening, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed Turkey’s active diplomatic engagement, advocating for a leaders’ summit between Russia and Ukraine to be held in Istanbul.
The Turkish media on July 27 maintained its primary focus on the escalating forest fires and intense heatwave, a continuation from previous days. Early reports detailed ongoing fires in multiple provinces, including a tragic firefighter fatality in Bursa. As the day progressed, the state's response intensified, with President Erdoğan announcing significant aerial efforts and the Dezenformasyonla Mücadele Merkezi addressing misinformation. A critical development in the afternoon involved authorities arresting three suspects in connection with the fires. Later, a devastating tanker accident during firefighting efforts led to multiple deaths. Concurrently, the impact of the prolonged heatwave became starkly evident with critical water level drops in Sapanca Lake, leading to supply cuts. On the international front, President Erdoğan and Emmanuel Macron discussed the Gaza situation, while Vice President Yılmaz called for increased pressure on the Netanyahu administration. Discussions also progressed on establishing a 'Terror-Free Turkey Commission'.
Turkish media on July 28 maintained its strong focus on the persistent forest fires, particularly in Bursa, now in their third day, with reports detailing tragic accidents like a water tanker overturning resulting in fatalities. A significant development was the intensified focus on sabotage allegations, with arrests made of individuals caught with gasoline, and specific claims linking one suspect to FETÖ, fueling demands for severe punishment against arsonists. Concurrently, political discourse continued to evolve regarding a "solution process" for the Kurdish issue, with the DEM Party announcing members for a "Terror-Free Turkey" commission, and the CHP expressing readiness to join. In a notable afternoon development, Istanbul University announced the revocation of Ekrem İmamoğlu's master's degree, drawing attention to the judiciary's role in political dynamics.
Turkish media extensively covered the intensifying Israel-Gaza conflict, reporting on Turkey's decision to join an action plan against Israel, signaling a hardening official stance. Headlines condemned Israel's actions, citing accusations of using hunger as a weapon, targeting journalists, and alleged annexation plans. Concurrently, a significant domestic story emerged as the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) became the subject of a corruption probe, leading to arrest warrants for 25 suspects, including high-ranking officials. Forest fires continued to be a major concern, with new flammable material bans implemented in Istanbul and arrests made of arsonists, some with alleged FETÖ links. Politically, the main opposition CHP established conditions for its participation in the proposed "Solution Commission," demanding either a qualified majority or equal representation, refusing to be a "mannequin" in the "Terror-Free Turkey" process. Kazakhstan's President's visit was also highlighted.
The main opposition CHP confirmed its participation in the 'Terror-Free Turkey Commission' throughout the day, a decision following earlier discussions and signaling a significant shift in the domestic political landscape. This move also aimed to address issues concerning Kurdish and Alevi communities.
Concurrently, the judiciary's role remained a focus as Ekrem İmamoğlu's appeal against the cancellation of his master's degree was rejected in the afternoon, upholding the prior decision.
Internationally, Turkish media prominently reported an 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula in the morning, which triggered tsunami warnings that later subsided. Turkey also announced it would begin supplying natural gas to Syria from Saturday. Forest fires continued to be reported, and the government issued a directive for increased public nursery capacities.
The establishment of the 'Terror-Free Turkey' commission dominated domestic reports on July 31, with media extensively detailing the appointment of members from various parties throughout the day, indicating concrete progress in this key political initiative. This was further underscored by a critical high-level security summit involving the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and the Head of MIT. Concurrently, President Erdoğan’s strong pronouncements on Palestine and Gaza intensified, welcoming state recognition and declaring that "the stone of patience is about to crack," amplifying Turkey's firm stance observed in previous days. Other significant domestic news included the widespread report of an earthquake felt in Istanbul and the extension of driver's license renewal periods.
Turkey Live Headlines