The story of Abhilash Tomy’s circumnavigation in the Golden Globe Race 2022 has been the story of his sturdy little boat, the Bayanat. While half a dozen sailors dropped out because of equipment failure, Abhilash plodded along carrying out countless tiny and notable repairs that helped him stay in contention.

Pro-Kurdish party says, 'Must back Erdogan's rival'

This week, Turkish President Erdogan appeared for a live televised interview. A routine chat, as the country nears its crucial polls but something happened in between the broadcast. It was cut mid-air, the reason - Erdogan's ill health. Ghadi Francis brings you the full report on The West Asia Post only on WION.

Erdogan falls sick during a live interview

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan suddenly interrupted a live television interview on Tuesday as he got up and walked away. Erdogan returned after 15 minutes and apologised for cutting the interview, which was mid-air while citing that he had developed a stomach bug.

Three campaign speeches were given by the 69-year-old Turkish leader as he headed towards the parliamentary and presidential election on May 14.

The president was set to end the night by making an appearance in a live interview with Ulke TV and Kanal 7. However, the leader's television interview started more than 90 minutes behind the original schedule and then was interrupted while the host was asking the question, ten minutes after the show started.&nbsp;

The camera, recording the interview, shook and the reporter who was questioning the president stood up from his chair when the live broadcast was stopped.&nbsp;

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Erdoğan yayındayken neden eyvah eyvah sesleri geldi? neler oldu acaba! <a href="https://t.co/qMVYFkZe22">pic.twitter.com/qMVYFkZe22</a>
— TÜRKİYE GERÇEKLERİ (@MstSelanik) <a href="https://twitter.com/MstSelanik/status/1650968869962493953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Oh wow," said an unidentified voice off the camera. After 15 minutes, Erdogan returned and apologised for getting sick.

"Yesterday and today were hard work. That's why I got a stomach flu," Erdogan stated.&nbsp;

"At one point, I wondered if it would be misunderstood if we cancelled the programme. But we promised. I ask for your and our audience's forgiveness," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-arrests-110-accused-of-kurdish-militant-ties-ahead-of-election-586066">Turkey arrests 110 accused of Kurdish militant ties ahead of election</a>

The president's face looked tired and his eyes appeared watery while he spoke during the interview. After the break, the Turkish leader answered a few more questions before the broadcast ended.&nbsp;

Erdogan and his party have been at the helm of Turkish politics for the past 20 years. However, the campaign is today posing as the toughest challenge to Erdogan's mercurial rule.

The polls show that Erdogan is running neck-and-neck and may face defeat by opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

"I convey my best wishes to Mr Erdogan," tweeted Kilicdaroglu moments after the episode aired.&nbsp;

WATCH | Turkey: Erdogan kicks off a contest to hold onto power

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Turkey is moving towards an election cycle in mid-May where the 69-year-old president is being challenged by Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

After he was elected as Istanbul's mayor in 1994, Erdogan has not lost any election throughout his career. He had faced defeat only twice during his initial two campaigns in the 1980s.&nbsp;

The Turkish president, who clinched victory in the last two presidential elections held in 2014 and 2018, hopes to again get elected as Turkey's president on May 14, supported by the People's Alliance, which is a political coalition of the Yeniden Refah Party, Nationalist Movement Party [MHP], Justice and Development Party [or AK Party] BBP and HUDA PAR.&nbsp;

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan suddenly interrupted a live television interview on Tuesday as he got up and walked away. Erdogan returned after 15 minutes and apologised for cutting the interview, which was mid-air while citing that he had developed a stomach bug.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan suddenly interrupted a live television interview on Tuesday as he got up and walked away. Erdogan returned after 15 minutes and apologised for cutting the interview, which was mid-air while citing that he had developed a stomach bug. Three campaign speeches were given by the 69-year-old Turkish leader as he headed towards the parliamentary and presidential election on May 14. The president was set to end the night by making an appearance in a live interview with Ulke TV and Kanal 7. However, the leader's television interview started more than 90 minutes behind the original schedule and then was interrupted while the host was asking the question, ten minutes after the show started. The camera, recording the interview, shook and the reporter who was questioning the president stood up from his chair when the live broadcast was stopped. Erdoğan yayındayken neden eyvah eyvah sesleri geldi? neler oldu acaba! pic.twitter.com/qMVYFkZe22 — TÜRKİYE GERÇEKLERİ (@MstSelanik) April 25, 2023 × "Oh wow," said an unidentified voice off the camera. After 15 minutes, Erdogan returned and apologised for getting sick. "Yesterday and today were hard work. That's why I got a stomach flu," Erdogan stated. "At one point, I wondered if it would be misunderstood if we cancelled the programme. But we promised. I ask for your and our audience's forgiveness," he added. ALSO READ | Turkey arrests 110 accused of Kurdish militant ties ahead of election The president's face looked tired and his eyes appeared watery while he spoke during the interview. After the break, the Turkish leader answered a few more questions before the broadcast ended. Erdogan and his party have been at the helm of Turkish politics for the past 20 years. However, the campaign is today posing as the toughest challenge to Erdogan's mercurial rule. The polls show that Erdogan is running neck-and-neck and may face defeat by opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu. "I convey my best wishes to Mr Erdogan," tweeted Kilicdaroglu moments after the episode aired. WATCH | Turkey: Erdogan kicks off a contest to hold onto power Turkey is moving towards an election cycle in mid-May where the 69-year-old president is being challenged by Kemal Kilicdaroglu. After he was elected as Istanbul's mayor in 1994, Erdogan has not lost any election throughout his career. He had faced defeat only twice during his initial two campaigns in the 1980s. The Turkish president, who clinched victory in the last two presidential elections held in 2014 and 2018, hopes to again get elected as Turkey's president on May 14, supported by the People's Alliance, which is a political coalition of the Yeniden Refah Party, Nationalist Movement Party [MHP], Justice and Development Party [or AK Party] BBP and HUDA PAR. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Turkey's Erdogan stops live TV interview citing 'stomach bug'

The political atmosphere is heating up in Turkiye. Erdogan's chief rival has started making moves. He has come out in defence of the Kurds and accused the President of stoking tensions for political gain. Ghadi Francis brings you the full report on this week's The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Turkiye readies for crucial polls

The countdown has started when the bugle has sounded. Erdogan has released his election manifesto, and his top concern is the economy. The fight for the presidency is now underway.

Turkey: Erdogan kicks off a contest to hold onto power

On The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis +Syria President's comeback after a decade in the cold +Saudi hold talks with Yemen's Houthi rebels +Why is Saddam Hussein still revered in Jordan?

The West Asia Post | Shifting Sands in West Asia: Erdogan kicks off Turkish presidential race

The bugle has sounded, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced his election manifesto, kicking off the race for the presidency. After twenty years of dominating Turkish politics, Erdogan faces an electoral challenge to his hold on power. Will he be able to swoop the stage or will the opposition clench the polls?

Erdogan kicks off Turkiye's poll race | The West Asia Post

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen kicked off a EU-hosted fund-raising event by promising one billion euros ($1.1 billion) for reconstruction in Turkey and 108 million for humanitarian aid in Syria.

"The needs of the survivors are still massive and must be tackled with urgency," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

During his address, Erdogan said that "regardless of its economic standing, it is impossible for any country to fight a disaster of this scale on its own."

Watch | The West Asia Post: Turkey to hold elections on May 14

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Turkey was hit last month by a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake that flattened entire cities. More than 50,000 people across southeastern Turkey and parts of war-torn Syria were killed, millions were displaced. And to add to the woes of the common people, flash floods occurred in the region.

The United Nations has set the "recovery costs" for Syria at $14.8 billion.&nbsp;

After the UN complained of poor level of response to a call to come to Turkey help, aid groups urged donors to step up their commitments.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC), said they should at least ensure that the UN's emergency appeal for $1 billion for Turkey and $397 million for Syria are fully funded.&nbsp;

"Over a month since the earthquake, the situation in affected regions remains desperate," said Tanya Evans, IRC country director for Syria.

"With many homes damaged or destroyed, many people are left with no choice but to sleep in overcrowded and under-resourced collective shelters," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria.

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen kicked off a EU-hosted fund-raising event by promising one billion euros ($1.1 billion) for reconstruction in Turkey and 108 million for humanitarian aid in Syria. "The needs of the survivors are still massive and must be tackled with urgency," von der Leyen said. During his address, Erdogan said that "regardless of its economic standing, it is impossible for any country to fight a disaster of this scale on its own." Watch | The West Asia Post: Turkey to hold elections on May 14 × Turkey was hit last month by a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake that flattened entire cities. More than 50,000 people across southeastern Turkey and parts of war-torn Syria were killed, millions were displaced. And to add to the woes of the common people, flash floods occurred in the region. The United Nations has set the "recovery costs" for Syria at $14.8 billion. After the UN complained of poor level of response to a call to come to Turkey help, aid groups urged donors to step up their commitments. The International Rescue Committee (IRC), said they should at least ensure that the UN's emergency appeal for $1 billion for Turkey and $397 million for Syria are fully funded. "Over a month since the earthquake, the situation in affected regions remains desperate," said Tanya Evans, IRC country director for Syria. "With many homes damaged or destroyed, many people are left with no choice but to sleep in overcrowded and under-resourced collective shelters," she said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey reconstruction would need more than USD 100 billion: Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday that he would support Finland’s NATO application, paving the way for the country to join the military bloc ahead of Sweden.

Finland's president in Turkey for talks on NATO bid

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office,&nbsp;officially set the country's parliamentary&nbsp;and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this.

Erdogan has been in power in Turkey&nbsp;since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge.

The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion">Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion</a>

Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy.

The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report.&nbsp;

The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan.

The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP. The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this. Erdogan has been in power in Turkey since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge. The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents. ALSO READ | Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy. The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report. The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan. The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey: Erdogan schedules presidential, parliamentary elections for May 14

Former civil servant Kemal Kilicdaroglu has been picked as the Presidential candidate by Turkey's opposition parties. Kilicdaroglu, known as 'Gandhi Kemal' will be going up against Erdogan on May 14. Molly Gambhir has the details.

Gravitas | Turkey: Kemal Kilicdaroglu picked as the opposition's Presidential candidate

An opposition alliance against Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reunited, just days after one of the six parties left due to a disagreement over the choice of their joint presidential candidate. Meral Aksener, leader of the nationalist İyi, or Good Party, the second-strongest force in the alliance, unexpectedly arrived at a meeting with the the five other parties in Ankara on Monday.

Turkish opposition reunites against Erdogan before elections

The 14th of may elections in turkey are seen as the most consequential in the republic's 100-year history. The opposition has named a joint candidate for presidency in - 74-year-old, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who is head of Turkey's second biggest party, Klichdarolu aims to emerge from Erdogan's shadow - who is the longest-serving leader of turkey. The opposition has vowed to reverse many of Erdogan's policies on economy, civil rights and foreign affairs. WION'S Eric Njoka speaks to professor Muzaffer Senel, a commentator and lecturer at the Istanbul kultur university, about Kilicdaroglu's chances.

Turkey elections: Biggest test for Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections. The national elections are scheduled for May.&nbsp;

"We've said this was going to happen months ago...We have already set our goal...Whatever they do, we continue to work on our plan, on our road map," state-owned TRT Haber reported Erdogan as saying.

The public split on Friday in an alliance of opposition parties followed months of simmering discord in the group, and was seen by analysts as a blow to opposition hopes of unseating Erdogan, who has been in power for two decades.

Earlier this week, Erdogan said that the elections would go ahead on May 14. The date was announced depite criticism of his government's handling of devastating earthquakes that took place last month. More than 45,000 people had lost lives in the country.

Meral Aksener, leader of the centre-right nationalist IYI Party, the second biggest in the alliance, announced on Friday the party was leaving the bloc.

She said that at a presidential candidate selection meeting this week, five parties in the alliance proposed Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), as their candidate.

Aksener accused members of the alliance of pressuring her party and defying people's will, adding that she proposed Mansur Yavas and Ekrem Imamoglu, CHP mayors of capital Ankara and Istanbul respectively, as candidates.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections. The national elections are scheduled for May. "We've said this was going to happen months ago...We have already set our goal...Whatever they do, we continue to work on our plan, on our road map," state-owned TRT Haber reported Erdogan as saying. The public split on Friday in an alliance of opposition parties followed months of simmering discord in the group, and was seen by analysts as a blow to opposition hopes of unseating Erdogan, who has been in power for two decades. Earlier this week, Erdogan said that the elections would go ahead on May 14. The date was announced depite criticism of his government's handling of devastating earthquakes that took place last month. More than 45,000 people had lost lives in the country. Meral Aksener, leader of the centre-right nationalist IYI Party, the second biggest in the alliance, announced on Friday the party was leaving the bloc. She said that at a presidential candidate selection meeting this week, five parties in the alliance proposed Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), as their candidate. Aksener accused members of the alliance of pressuring her party and defying people's will, adding that she proposed Mansur Yavas and Ekrem Imamoglu, CHP mayors of capital Ankara and Istanbul respectively, as candidates. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: U.S. delegation lands in Taiwan | Blinken meets Erdogan

Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries.

Meanwhile, amid growing criticism over poor response, Erdogan visited one of the hardest-hit spots, quake epicentre Kahramanmaras. He also acknowledged the issues that were reported in the response.&nbsp;

He said, "Of course, there are shortcomings. The conditions are clear to see. It's not possible to be ready for a disaster like this."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbreaking-image-show-father-holding-hand-of-daughter-who-died-in-turkey-earthquake-560073">Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. The world health body said there was a race against time to save lives and also ensure survivors stay alive in dire circumstances.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Five heartbreaking videos from Turkey and Syria Earthquakes&nbsp;

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As quoted by the news agencies, Robert Holden, who is WHO's earthquake response incident manager, said that the focus was on saving lives but insisted it was "imperative to make sure that those who survived the initial disaster... continue to survive".&nbsp;

He further said, "We've got a lot of people who have survived now out in the open, in worsening and horrific conditions&nbsp;with disrupted access to water, fuel, electricity and communications."

Holden told a press conference in Geneva, "We are in real danger of seeing a secondary disaster which may cause harm to more people than the initial disaster if we don't move with the same pace and intensity as we are doing on the search and rescue."&nbsp;

"This is no easy task... The scale of the operation is massive," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>'Put politics aside'&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, a leading United Nations official urged to stop the politics and urged to facilitate aid access to rebel-held areas in Syria's northwest. The official warned that the relief stocks will soon be depleted.&nbsp;

The UN's resident Syria coordinator El-Mostafa Benlamlih said in an interview with the news agency AFP: "Put politics aside and let us do our humanitarian work. We can't afford to wait and negotiate. By the time we negotiate, it's done, it's finished."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response.

Devastating earthquakes wreaked havoc on Turkey and parts of Syria, killing thousands of people. Turkish President Erdogan has acknowledged "shortcomings" in the government's quake response. The massive earthquake has killed over 15,000 people in the two countries. Meanwhile, amid growing criticism over poor response, Erdogan visited one of the hardest-hit spots, quake epicentre Kahramanmaras. He also acknowledged the issues that were reported in the response. He said, "Of course, there are shortcomings. The conditions are clear to see. It's not possible to be ready for a disaster like this." ALSO READ | Heartbreaking image shows father holding hand of daughter, who died in Turkey earthquake Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a worse secondary health crisis in the areas hit by the earthquake. The world health body said there was a race against time to save lives and also ensure survivors stay alive in dire circumstances. WATCH | Gravitas: Five heartbreaking videos from Turkey and Syria Earthquakes × As quoted by the news agencies, Robert Holden, who is WHO's earthquake response incident manager, said that the focus was on saving lives but insisted it was "imperative to make sure that those who survived the initial disaster... continue to survive". He further said, "We've got a lot of people who have survived now out in the open, in worsening and horrific conditions with disrupted access to water, fuel, electricity and communications." Holden told a press conference in Geneva, "We are in real danger of seeing a secondary disaster which may cause harm to more people than the initial disaster if we don't move with the same pace and intensity as we are doing on the search and rescue." "This is no easy task... The scale of the operation is massive," he added. 'Put politics aside' Meanwhile, a leading United Nations official urged to stop the politics and urged to facilitate aid access to rebel-held areas in Syria's northwest. The official warned that the relief stocks will soon be depleted. The UN's resident Syria coordinator El-Mostafa Benlamlih said in an interview with the news agency AFP: "Put politics aside and let us do our humanitarian work. We can't afford to wait and negotiate. By the time we negotiate, it's done, it's finished." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll tops 15,000

Two days after a devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake killed more than 17,000 people in Turkey and Syria, families huddled in the cold rain, hitching tarps to make improvised tents, resting on bits of furniture pulled from the wreckage and lining up for shoes, blankets - anything available.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Death toll crosses 17,000, Turkish President Erdogan visits disaster zone

Access to Twitter in Turkey has been restored, the Netblocks internet observatory said on Thursday. This comes after&nbsp;talks were held between the company and Turkish authorities about content being posted after a major earthquake this week.

"Metrics confirm access to Twitter is being restored in Turkey following hours of filtering," NetBlocks said on its Twitter account.

Turkey's Deputy Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Omer Fatih Sayan told the Twitter management that the country expects&nbsp;cooperation on fighting disinformation as earthquake relief work continues.

Earlier, quake-hit people in the country were unable to use the social media platform on Wednesday. As per reports, it started when Turkish people thronged on social media and criticised Erdogan's government in its failure to efficiently respond in the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that hit the Middle East nation on Monday.

Turkish social media was flooded with remarks from users who were dissatisfied with the state of search and rescue operations in their areas after the devastating earthquake. The Twitter outage occurred as Erdogan visited two of the most severely affected areas in Turkey.

Twitter Chief Executive Elon Musk later said in a tweet that the Turkish government had informed the company&nbsp;that full access to the social media platform in the country will be re-enabled "shortly".

"Twitter has been informed by the Turkish government that access will be re-enabled shortly," Musk tweeted, without providing further details on timing.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-earthquake-erdogan-admits-shortcomings-as-death-toll-nears-12000-560116">Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll nears 12,000</a>

The Turkish police has been stamping its authority on social media dissenters. Over a dozen have been detained so far for criticising President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government and its post-quake relief measures.&nbsp;

The report of Twitter inaccessibility was confirmed by AFP news agency as well where the ground reporters could not get their hands on the microblogging site on major Turkish mobile providers on Wednesday. However, the agency reported that Twitter was still accessible using virtual private network (VPN) services, that hides a user's physical location.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-to-mobilise-donors-to-aid-rehabilitation-of-quake-affected-people-in-turkey-syria-560107">Europe to mobilise donors to aid rehabilitation of quake-affected people in Turkey, Syria</a>

This comes in the backdrop of the looming risk at Erdogan's political aspirations ahead of the May 14 election in which the President will eye for an extension to his two-decade rule.

Meanwhile, taking to Twitter, the netblocks.org social media monitor said the social media website was being restricted "on multiple internet providers in Turkey". "Turkey has an extensive history of social media restrictions during national emergencies and safety incidents," the monitor added.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-earthquake-survivors-recall-horror-560099">Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror</a>

The issue was not immediately addressed by Turkish officials, who repeatedly warned against the circulation of false information ahead of the May polls. At least 11,200 people were killed by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake on Monday and its aftershocks across southeast Turkey and portions of Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Access to Twitter in Turkey has been restored, the Netblocks internet observatory said on Thursday. This comes after talks were held between the company and Turkish authorities about content being posted after a major earthquake this week.

Access to Twitter in Turkey has been restored, the Netblocks internet observatory said on Thursday. This comes after talks were held between the company and Turkish authorities about content being posted after a major earthquake this week. "Metrics confirm access to Twitter is being restored in Turkey following hours of filtering," NetBlocks said on its Twitter account. Turkey's Deputy Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Omer Fatih Sayan told the Twitter management that the country expects cooperation on fighting disinformation as earthquake relief work continues. Earlier, quake-hit people in the country were unable to use the social media platform on Wednesday. As per reports, it started when Turkish people thronged on social media and criticised Erdogan's government in its failure to efficiently respond in the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that hit the Middle East nation on Monday. Turkish social media was flooded with remarks from users who were dissatisfied with the state of search and rescue operations in their areas after the devastating earthquake. The Twitter outage occurred as Erdogan visited two of the most severely affected areas in Turkey. Twitter Chief Executive Elon Musk later said in a tweet that the Turkish government had informed the company that full access to the social media platform in the country will be re-enabled "shortly". "Twitter has been informed by the Turkish government that access will be re-enabled shortly," Musk tweeted, without providing further details on timing. Also Read | Turkey earthquake: Erdogan admits 'shortcomings' as death toll nears 12,000 The Turkish police has been stamping its authority on social media dissenters. Over a dozen have been detained so far for criticising President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government and its post-quake relief measures. The report of Twitter inaccessibility was confirmed by AFP news agency as well where the ground reporters could not get their hands on the microblogging site on major Turkish mobile providers on Wednesday. However, the agency reported that Twitter was still accessible using virtual private network (VPN) services, that hides a user's physical location. Also Read | Europe to mobilise donors to aid rehabilitation of quake-affected people in Turkey, Syria This comes in the backdrop of the looming risk at Erdogan's political aspirations ahead of the May 14 election in which the President will eye for an extension to his two-decade rule. Meanwhile, taking to Twitter, the netblocks.org social media monitor said the social media website was being restricted "on multiple internet providers in Turkey". "Turkey has an extensive history of social media restrictions during national emergencies and safety incidents," the monitor added. Watch | Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror The issue was not immediately addressed by Turkish officials, who repeatedly warned against the circulation of false information ahead of the May polls. At least 11,200 people were killed by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake on Monday and its aftershocks across southeast Turkey and portions of Syria. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twitter back online in Turkey after being blocked following devastating quake

Over 3500 buildings have collapsed, and at least 3,500 people have died in Turkey alone. But are the earthquakes alone to be blamed for the devastation. Or are shoddy construction and Erdogan equally guilty? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Turkey Earthquakes: 3,500 Buildings collapse, over 5000 dead. Is Erdogan blameless?

Over 3500 buildings have collapsed, and at least 11,000 people have died in Turkey alone. But are the earthquakes alone to be blamed for the devastation. Or are shoddy construction and Erdogan equally guilty?

Turkey-Syria earthquake toll crosses 11,000; round-the-clock rescue operations underway

After the deadly earthquakes that occurred on Monday and resulted in more than 2,800 fatalities so far, including at least 1,762 in Turkiye, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a seven-day period of national mourning.

"Due to the earthquakes that took place in our country on February 6, 2023, a national mourning period was declared for seven days. Our flag will be hoisted at half-mast until sunset on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in all our country and foreign representations," an english translation of his Twitter post read.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-president-pervez-musharrafs-mortal-remains-brought-to-karachi-559391">Pakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf’s mortal remains brought to Karachi</a>

The earthquakes are Turkiye's worst natural catastrophe since a major quake in 1999 that seriously devastated much of Istanbul, the country's capital, and killed thousands of people. over 10 search and rescue teams from the EU have been activated since the earthquake.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/these-nations-global-organizations-pledged-support-to-turkiye-in-its-quake-relief-efforts-559382">These nations, global organisations pledged support to Turkiye in its quake relief efforts</a>

Other countries have also offered assistance including India, US, UK, Israel and Russia. In addition, there have been calls for the international community to loosen some of the political restrictions on aid entering northwestern Syria.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-and-syria-struck-by-powerful-earthquakes-559346">Turkiye and Syria struck by powerful earthquakes</a>

In neighbouring Syria, at least 1,073 people have died due to the catastrophic earthquake. Videos emerging from Turkiye showed people waiting for assistance amid collapsed buildings. The weather is itself a challenge right now in the middle east nation. The cold and wet are hampering rescuers in their quake relief efforts.&nbsp;

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After the deadly earthquakes that occurred on Monday and resulted in more than 2,800 fatalities so far, including at least 1,762 in Turkiye, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a seven-day period of national mourning.

After the deadly earthquakes that occurred on Monday and resulted in more than 2,800 fatalities so far, including at least 1,762 in Turkiye, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a seven-day period of national mourning. "Due to the earthquakes that took place in our country on February 6, 2023, a national mourning period was declared for seven days. Our flag will be hoisted at half-mast until sunset on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in all our country and foreign representations," an english translation of his Twitter post read. Also Read | Pakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf’s mortal remains brought to Karachi The earthquakes are Turkiye's worst natural catastrophe since a major quake in 1999 that seriously devastated much of Istanbul, the country's capital, and killed thousands of people. over 10 search and rescue teams from the EU have been activated since the earthquake. Also Read | These nations, global organisations pledged support to Turkiye in its quake relief efforts Other countries have also offered assistance including India, US, UK, Israel and Russia. In addition, there have been calls for the international community to loosen some of the political restrictions on aid entering northwestern Syria. Watch | Turkiye and Syria struck by powerful earthquakes In neighbouring Syria, at least 1,073 people have died due to the catastrophic earthquake. Videos emerging from Turkiye showed people waiting for assistance amid collapsed buildings. The weather is itself a challenge right now in the middle east nation. The cold and wet are hampering rescuers in their quake relief efforts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkiye declares week-long national mourning after deadly earthquake killed thousands

Turkiye opposition parties are putting up a united front in the coming May 14 Presidential and Parliamentary elections vowing to wrest power from Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The 6 parties who have formed the national alliance have vowed to reduce the presidential powers and expand democratic rights if voted to power. Turkiye's opposition has come out with a 2,300-point programme and pledged to agree on a joint candidate in the crucial elections on february 13.

Turkiye's opposition unleash plans to defeat Erdogan

Turkish President Erdogan has threatened to block Sweden's NATO bid over the burning of Quran by a right-wing politician.

Gravitas: Erdogan threatens to block Sweden's NATO bid

Turkey has advanced its elections by almost a month. Turkey president Richard has announced that the elections will now be held on the 14th of May. The President's office released a video footage of Erdogan announcing the date.

Turkiye: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reschedules elections

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that the elections in Turkiye will take place on May 14 — one month ahead of schedule, according to a video posted by the president's office on Sunday.&nbsp;

In a video from his meeting with young people this past weekend in Bursa, which the presidency posted, Erdogan said, "This is not an early election, but bringing it forward."

Erdogan said that he will exercise his power to run for office on May 14; he claimed that this modification had been made in light of upcoming school examinations.

The Turkish strongman, who has been in power for 20 years and has moulded the politics of the mostly Muslim but formally secular nation, faces his toughest election yet.

Also watch |&nbsp;Turkiye-Sweden Clash: Crisis deepens over Quran-burning by Paludan

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The opposition alliance, which is still divided as to which candidate to endorse to run against the 68-year-old leader, also favoured holding the elections on May 14.

This week, AFP was informed by an opposition party source that their joint candidate will be revealed in February.

(With inputs from agencies)

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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that the elections in Turkiye will take place on May 14 — one month ahead of schedule, according to a video posted by the president's office on Sunday.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared that the elections in Turkiye will take place on May 14 — one month ahead of schedule, according to a video posted by the president's office on Sunday. In a video from his meeting with young people this past weekend in Bursa, which the presidency posted, Erdogan said, "This is not an early election, but bringing it forward." Erdogan said that he will exercise his power to run for office on May 14; he claimed that this modification had been made in light of upcoming school examinations. The Turkish strongman, who has been in power for 20 years and has moulded the politics of the mostly Muslim but formally secular nation, faces his toughest election yet. Also watch | Turkiye-Sweden Clash: Crisis deepens over Quran-burning by Paludan The opposition alliance, which is still divided as to which candidate to endorse to run against the 68-year-old leader, also favoured holding the elections on May 14. This week, AFP was informed by an opposition party source that their joint candidate will be revealed in February. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkish elections to be held on May 14: President Erdogan

After four years marked by strain in diplomatic relations, Israel’s envoy to Türkiye assumed her duties after presenting her letter of credentials to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Irit Lillian, a senior diplomat who played a key role in Israeli-Turkish reconciliation, was welcomed by Erdogan at the presidential complex in the capital Ankara on Tuesday.

She has been Israel’s charge d’affaires in Ankara since February 2021, during which time both sides gradually moved toward restoring full diplomatic relations.

After the ceremony at the presidential palace, Lillian expressed her hope that bilateral ties would continue to expand.

“We all expect that the process of growing closer diplomatically between Israel and Turkey will become stronger, will broaden and will spread over many areas of cooperation,” she said in a video statement, reported Times of Israel newspaper.

<h2>Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move</h2>

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In August, Türkiye and Israel agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and reappoint ambassadors and consuls general after a four-year hiatus.

Last month, Israeli Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu after winning the elections assured that he and Erdogan will “work together to create a new era in relations” on a basis of respect for mutual interests.

Though close regional allies once, Israel and Turkey’s relations have&nbsp;been strained for more than a decade.

In 2010, Turkey expelled Israel’s ambassador following a 2010 Israeli raid on an aid ship to Gaza, which killed 10 Turkish citizens.

Six years later, both Turkey and Israel announced to restore diplomatic relations, but in 2018, their ties soured again after Israeli forces killed a number of Palestinians who had taken part in protests in the Gaza Strip, forcing Turkey to recall its ambassador from Israel and expel the Israeli envoy.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After four years marked by strain in diplomatic relations, Israel’s envoy to Türkiye assumed her duties after presenting her letter of credentials to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

After four years marked by strain in diplomatic relations, Israel’s envoy to Türkiye assumed her duties after presenting her letter of credentials to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Irit Lillian, a senior diplomat who played a key role in Israeli-Turkish reconciliation, was welcomed by Erdogan at the presidential complex in the capital Ankara on Tuesday. She has been Israel’s charge d’affaires in Ankara since February 2021, during which time both sides gradually moved toward restoring full diplomatic relations. After the ceremony at the presidential palace, Lillian expressed her hope that bilateral ties would continue to expand. “We all expect that the process of growing closer diplomatically between Israel and Turkey will become stronger, will broaden and will spread over many areas of cooperation,” she said in a video statement, reported Times of Israel newspaper. Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move In August, Türkiye and Israel agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and reappoint ambassadors and consuls general after a four-year hiatus. Last month, Israeli Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu after winning the elections assured that he and Erdogan will “work together to create a new era in relations” on a basis of respect for mutual interests. Though close regional allies once, Israel and Turkey’s relations have been strained for more than a decade. In 2010, Turkey expelled Israel’s ambassador following a 2010 Israeli raid on an aid ship to Gaza, which killed 10 Turkish citizens. Six years later, both Turkey and Israel announced to restore diplomatic relations, but in 2018, their ties soured again after Israeli forces killed a number of Palestinians who had taken part in protests in the Gaza Strip, forcing Turkey to recall its ambassador from Israel and expel the Israeli envoy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After four years of diplomatic strain, Turkiye welcomes Israel’s ambassador

Turkey on Thursday (December 22) announced third major minimum wage hike in a matter of a year in order to try and cushion against inflation. The move has been taken ahead of crunch elections.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that the minimum wage would be raised to 8500 liras (USD 455). In December 2021, the minimum wage was 2826 liras.

More than 40 per cent of Turkey's working citizens earn minimum wage. When he rose to power two decades ago, working classes were the main support base of Erdogan.

But Turkey's poor have been hit the hardest by an economic crisis that has seen the official annual inflation rate reach 85 percent.

It was raised to 4,253 liras last January and then to 5,500 in July.

But an accompanying plunge in the lira's value means that the wage has been raised only fractionally in dollar terms in the past year.

Turkey's latest economic crisis started when Erdogan -- a lifelong opponent of high interest rates -- pressured the central bank to bring down chronically high consumer prices by lowering borrowing costs.

Conventional economic theory urges policymakers to fight inflation by curbing demand and raising the price of doing business through higher interest rates.

Erdogan's approach set off a currency crisis that saw the lira lose nearly half its value in a matter of weeks late last year.

The government has responded by spending its reserves on currency support measures and imposing complex economic rules aimed at bringing inflation under control.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey on Thursday (December 22) announced third major minimum wage hike in a matter of a year in order to try and cushion against inflation. The move has been taken ahead of crunch elections.

Turkey on Thursday (December 22) announced third major minimum wage hike in a matter of a year in order to try and cushion against inflation. The move has been taken ahead of crunch elections. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that the minimum wage would be raised to 8500 liras (USD 455). In December 2021, the minimum wage was 2826 liras. More than 40 per cent of Turkey's working citizens earn minimum wage. When he rose to power two decades ago, working classes were the main support base of Erdogan. But Turkey's poor have been hit the hardest by an economic crisis that has seen the official annual inflation rate reach 85 percent. It was raised to 4,253 liras last January and then to 5,500 in July. But an accompanying plunge in the lira's value means that the wage has been raised only fractionally in dollar terms in the past year. Turkey's latest economic crisis started when Erdogan -- a lifelong opponent of high interest rates -- pressured the central bank to bring down chronically high consumer prices by lowering borrowing costs. Conventional economic theory urges policymakers to fight inflation by curbing demand and raising the price of doing business through higher interest rates. Erdogan's approach set off a currency crisis that saw the lira lose nearly half its value in a matter of weeks late last year. The government has responded by spending its reserves on currency support measures and imposing complex economic rules aimed at bringing inflation under control. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey looks to fight inflation by raising minimum wage third time

The incumbent President Tayyip Erdogan has dominated the Turkish politics for the last two decades but what is interesting is that the Turkish president has hinted at the possibility of him leaving the race for the top post after the 2023 elections.

Turkiye: President Erdogan hints at retirement after 2023, says 'will hand over flag to youth'

After an Istanbul court sentenced the mayor to more than two and a half years in prison on accusations of insulting Supreme Electoral Council members, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that the courts will fix any errors in an appeal process.

Erdogan: Nothing to do with ban on Mayor | Istanbul

Thousands of people rallied in Turkey on Thursday to oppose the conviction and political ban of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, chanting slogans criticising President Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling AK Party before elections next year.

Supporters of banned mayor Imamoglu rally in Istanbul

As Turkey is inching closer to its Presidential Elections, the headscarf debate in the country has heated up. The ruling party has now submitted a constitutional amendment that seeks to protect women's rights to wear the headscarves at work and also in daily life.

Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move

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