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Turkey's Largest Protests in a Decade Continue After Opposition Leader's Arrest

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's imprisonment on corruption charges has led to mass demonstrations, international criticism, and economic turmoil.

  • Protests have entered their seventh day following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, with demonstrators calling for his release and denouncing democratic erosion.
  • Over 1,400 individuals, including journalists, have been detained, with reports of police using tear gas, water cannons, and plastic bullets against largely peaceful protests.
  • Turkey's government claims the judiciary is independent and accuses the opposition of inciting unrest, while critics view the arrest as politically motivated to eliminate a key rival to President Erdogan ahead of the 2028 election.
  • The unrest has drawn international condemnation from European leaders and rights groups, who warn of democratic backsliding and demand respect for press freedom and the right to protest.
  • The protests have caused significant economic disruption, with Turkey's financial markets experiencing sharp losses and ongoing instability.
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