Latest News from Turkey
Turkey Extends Mideast Flight Cancellations Due to War
Turkish Airlines, AJet, Pegasus, and Sunexpress have cancelled flights to Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan until March 13 due to ongoing Middle East conflict. This extension follows earlier cancellations triggered by US-Israel strikes on Iran and Iranian responses.
The decision impacts regional travel amid heightened tensions.
Turkish Airlines Signs Collective Bargaining Agreement for 2026-2027
Turkish Airlines has signed a new collective bargaining agreement with the Hava-Is union covering 2026-2027. This deal comes amid the airline's recent full-year earnings report showing net profit up to 118.21 billion lira.
It addresses employee relations during operational challenges from regional conflicts.
11 Overseas Filipinos Evacuated from Iran to Van, Turkey
Eleven OFWs were safely evacuated from Iran to Van, Turkey, coordinated by Philippine embassies in Tehran and Ankara. They are scheduled to return to the Philippines soon, with DFA assisting remaining Filipinos in Iran.
This occurs amid US-Israel 'Operation Epic Fury' and Iranian missile strikes.
Turkey Warns Against 'Dangerous' Bid to Stir Civil War in Iran
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that efforts to instigate civil war in Iran along ethnic or religious lines would be a historic mistake. He spoke after NATO intercepted an Iran-launched ballistic missile aimed at Turkey.
Fidan emphasized opposition to regime change scenarios targeting Iran's fault lines.
Ankara Warns Iran Against Firing More Missiles Towards Turkey
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan cautioned Iran on March 7 against launching additional missiles toward Turkey. This follows NATO air defenses destroying a Turkey-bound Iranian missile earlier in the week.
The warning underscores Turkey's firm stance amid escalating regional hostilities.
Turkey's Jailed Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu Faces Trial on March 9
Opposition figure Ekrem Imamoglu, a jailed mayor, goes on trial today, stating demands for change cannot be stopped. The case highlights ongoing political tensions in Turkey.
It coincides with broader regional instability affecting domestic politics.
Iran Missile Launch Triggers Air Raid Sirens in Northern Israel
Air raid sirens sounded in northern Israel, including Haifa, due to Iranian missiles, with defenses responding effectively. No damage or casualties reported after alerts were lifted.
Turkey's monitoring of these events ties into its regional warnings.
Turkish Central Bank Implements New Forex Measures Amid Market Pressure
Turkey's Central Bank launched Turkish lira-settled forward forex sales to ease market pressures. This follows over 20 billion dollars in sales to stabilize the lira in the past week.
Measures address economic strains from Middle East conflicts and rising oil prices.
Rising Oil Prices and Energy Crisis Hit Turkey from Iran Oil Depot Attack
Black clouds and acid rain warnings follow an attack on an Iranian oil depot, causing energy market panic. Iraq and Gulf oil production drops are pushing global prices up, impacting Turkey.
This precedes the March 18 FED interest rate decision.
20th Hearing in Photojournalist Çağdaş Erdoğan’s Trial
The 20th hearing occurs today at 09:30 for photojournalist Çağdaş Erdoğan, charged with membership in an organization. MLSA is handling his defense in this freedom of expression case.
It reflects ongoing journalism trials during the week of March 9.
Kuwait Intercepts Iranian Missiles and Drones Amid Regional Strikes
Kuwait's air defenses engaged hostile Iranian missiles and drones, with explosions from interceptions. This is part of Iran's continued strikes across the Middle East.
Turkey's warnings align with efforts to contain spillover effects.
Pope Leo Urges Dialogue Amid Iran and Middle East Violence
Pope Leo called for an end to violence in Iran and the Middle East, fearing spread to countries like Lebanon. He urged renewed dialogue during his Angelus prayer.
Turkey's diplomatic stance echoes calls for de-escalation.