Protests against NATO in Turkey: Over 100 arrested

Turkish authorities detained more than 100 individuals participating in anti-NATO protests organized by the Communist Party of Turkey (TKP). The demonstrations occurred just days before the alliance's summit, scheduled to be held in Ankara, where leaders from 32 allied nations and NATO partner officials will convene.

Security has been significantly tightened in Turkey's capital in anticipation of the summit. Authorities have implemented protest bans, cordoned off large sections of the city, and closed numerous roads. The TKP reported that its members were arrested during a protest march in Ankara's central Kizilay Square. Images from the scene showed demonstrators waving flags with slogans such as "NATO killers, get out of our country" and "No passage for NATO," as riot police used tear gas to disperse the crowds.

In Istanbul, a separate protest organized by the TKP saw hundreds march from Taksim Square to Dolmabahce. Despite a strong police presence, this demonstration proceeded without incident. "We gathered today in many parts of Turkey to protest NATO," stated TKP Secretary-General Kemal Okuyan in Istanbul. "We said we would not hand over Ankara to NATO supporters, that we would not allow Ankara to remain silent. We kept that promise."

Separately, media reports indicated that an additional 39 people, including independent journalists, activists, and university professors, were detained in counter-terrorism raids conducted across the country. These arrests were not directly linked to the anti-NATO protests but highlight a broader crackdown on dissent.

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We gathered today in many parts of Turkey to protest NATO. We said we would not hand over Ankara to NATO supporters, that we would not allow Ankara to remain silent. We kept that promise.