Stories from Istanbul · Turkey

The Republican People's Party (CHP) has halted the membership registration process for Arif Kocabıy. The party stated that Kocabıy was requested to resign from his position. Officials noted that Kocabıy's past attitudes and social media posts were inconsistent with CHP principles and values. The allegations include forming and managing a criminal organization, bribery, extortion, and money laundering. Reports indicate that Kocabıy's past conduct and social media posts were reviewed during the process.

Wedding hall operators and meeting venue managers in Turkey report a 30 percent decrease in wedding reservations compared to last year. Couples are seeking budget-friendly alternatives due to rising costs. Venue prices vary significantly by location, with Esenyurt costing 70,000 to 80,000 lira and Beşiktaş reaching 350,000 to 400,000 lira. Some couples are opting for two-hour mini-weddings to manage expenses. Turkish citizens are increasingly turning to alternatives such as mini-weddings lasting two hours. Couples in Turkey are opting for smaller, more economical wedding celebrations, such as two-hour mini-weddings or programs featuring snacks instead of full meals. Guest lists are being reduced from traditional 500-600 person counts to 250-400 people to lower costs.

Authorities in Istanbul have banned all strikes and demonstrations in the Beyoğlu, Şişli, Fatih, and Beşiktaş districts for May 1. The demonstration follows the interception of a flotilla consisting of 50 vessels in international waters off the coast of Crete. Protesters expressed opposition to the military action taken against the humanitarian vessels. The Istanbul Governor's Office has prohibited rallies and marches on May 1 in the districts of Beyoğlu, Şişli, Fatih, and Beşiktaş. The Governor of Istanbul has banned all marches, demonstrations, and rallies in the Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Fatih districts. The ban is scheduled to remain in effect until nighttime. All roads leading to Taksim Square have been closed to the public. Representatives are criticizing the ban on protests in the Taksim area of Istanbul. Workers are reportedly reacting to the decision.

Witnesses in Istanbul reported seeing consecutive flashes of light and hearing intense sounds consistent with explosions. The reporter noted seeing flashing lights in succession followed by a very loud noise.

The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation regarding an Israeli attack. Ankara has reacted to the incident, describing the intervention as illegal. The source stated the attack endangered numerous civilian lives and violated international law. The Minister has requested explanations from the Ambassador in Gaza following the operation. All diplomatic protection has been activated for foreigners detained in international waters. These individuals are among approximately 100 activists detained during a flotilla mission. Diplomatic services in Athens are on alert to monitor the disembarkation and facilitate rescue efforts. The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called for explanations regarding the operation and activated the embassy in Athens to monitor the disembarkation of the 110 detainees.

A commentator stated that a US victory in the current conflict cannot be declared without controlling the Hormuz Strait. The source mentioned that a US defense minister previously claimed the nuclear program was finished ten months ago before correcting the statement.

MIA Teknoloji has applied to the Capital Markets Board (SPK) to merge with Lider Sistem Teknolojileri.

Temperatures in parts of Turkey are expected to drop by 10 degrees Celsius. Istanbul faces heavy rain on Friday with potential flooding in some areas. In the Aegean region, specifically Izmir, temperatures on Sunday are expected to be affected by wind. Temperatures in the Aegean region, particularly Izmir, are expected to remain low due to wind effects through May 8 or 9. The weather pattern is expected to include intermittent rain throughout May. While May averages for Istanbul and Ankara are 22 and 26 degrees respectively, felt temperatures may fall below zero. Outdoor plans are expected to be disrupted by these conditions. Heavy rainfall is expected in the Marmara region, Akdeniz, inner Anatolia, and Karadeniz. The intensity of the rain is predicted to increase on Friday in the Sakarya region and the western Karadeniz. All workers were evacuated in time, so no injuries occurred.

Temperatures are expected to drop by 10 degrees Celsius in some regions due to a cold wave arriving from Russia. The weather shift is occurring as spring arrival is delayed. The source noted the drop will affect certain areas significantly.

The arrest, which began on April 22, involves 18 suspects facing charges including bribery, extortion, and bid rigging. The proceedings regarding the deputy chairmanship election began following the arrest of Güzel in 2022. Some members of the alliance raised objections, claiming that a transparent vote was not conducted, leading to tensions with CHP members. Serious incidents occurred during May Day demonstrations near Taksim Square in Istanbul. The clashes involved demonstrators and police forces. Police arrested hundreds of people during May Day demonstrations in Istanbul. At least 360 to 370 people were arrested in Istanbul during celebrations. The arrests targeted two specific groups in distinct neighborhoods on the European side of the city. The arrests occurred alongside various other activities in Turkey.