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.









































