<p>Despite a month after the peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan was signed, the crisis is far from over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest, Yerevan has accused Baku of using phosphorous bombs during the fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-azerbaijan-commit-war-crimes-348935/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Azeri president, on the other hand, has said that the country will not shy of "breaking Armenia's back with an iron fist".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijans-struggle-will-continue-on-many-other-fronts-says-erdogan-during-military-parade-348859">Azerbaijan's struggle will continue on many other fronts, says Erdogan during military parade</a></strong></p>

<p>And amid the tense ties, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who fuelled this week war, has landed in Baku to survey the reins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Erdogan received a hero's welcome on his two-day visit to Azerbaijan&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even reviewed a parade where Baku displayed the destroyed Armenian vehicles and dished out hate in plenty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To the unversed, Erdogan provided military and diplomatic support to Azerbaijan during the conflict and even praised Baku's operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even cheered "brotherly Azerbaijan with all our means and all our hearts".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the people of Armenia learn their lessons from what happened in Karabakh, this will be the start of a new era in the region," said Erdogan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karabakh is internationally recognised as a territory of Azerbaijan but until recently, it was populated and controlled by ethnic Armenians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the peace deal brokered by Russia, broad strips of Nagorno Karabakh territory were handed over to Azerbaijan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also pushed Armenia into an internal political mess as thousands are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan</p>

<p>Even though troops in Baku are celebrating their victory, over 5,000 military personnel died in six weeks of fighting and all this because one man couldn't keep himself from adding fuel to the fire.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Despite a month after the peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan was signed, the crisis is far from over. In the latest, Yerevan has accused Baku of using phosphorous bombs during the fight.

Despite a month after the peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan was signed, the crisis is far from over. In the latest, Yerevan has accused Baku of using phosphorous bombs during the fight. Watch | Azeri president, on the other hand, has said that the country will not shy of "breaking Armenia's back with an iron fist". Also read | Azerbaijan's struggle will continue on many other fronts, says Erdogan during military parade And amid the tense ties, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who fuelled this week war, has landed in Baku to survey the reins. Erdogan received a hero's welcome on his two-day visit to Azerbaijan He even reviewed a parade where Baku displayed the destroyed Armenian vehicles and dished out hate in plenty. To the unversed, Erdogan provided military and diplomatic support to Azerbaijan during the conflict and even praised Baku's operations. He even cheered "brotherly Azerbaijan with all our means and all our hearts". "If the people of Armenia learn their lessons from what happened in Karabakh, this will be the start of a new era in the region," said Erdogan. Karabakh is internationally recognised as a territory of Azerbaijan but until recently, it was populated and controlled by ethnic Armenians. According to the peace deal brokered by Russia, broad strips of Nagorno Karabakh territory were handed over to Azerbaijan. It also pushed Armenia into an internal political mess as thousands are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan Even though troops in Baku are celebrating their victory, over 5,000 military personnel died in six weeks of fighting and all this because one man couldn't keep himself from adding fuel to the fire.

Erdogan, who fuelled Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict arrives in Baku

<p>WASHINGTON — No longer restrained by President Donald Trump’s affection for Turkey’s authoritarian leader, U.S. officials and Congress are using the waning days of his presidency to ready sanctions and strike a strident tone against the strategic but unreliable ally.</p>

<p>Turkey, a member of NATO, has vexed the administration almost since its start. That has been as much Trump’s doing — and his admiration for its president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan — as that of actions by the government in Ankara, which has abused human rights, imprisoned Americans and journalists, and muscled into confrontations from Syria to Libya to the Caucasus to the eastern Mediterranean Sea.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/prez-erdogan-says-turkey-will-not-bow-to-threats-348240/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The redirection of U.S. policy also will require President-elect Joe Biden to carefully bring Turkey back into the West’s embrace and keep from pushing it closer to Russia.</p>

<p>“For years, President Trump has personally shielded Erdogan and Turkey,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md. He said the incoming Biden administration “will be an important check on Erdogan’s efforts to expand his influence at our expense, in a way that undermines our interests.”</p>

<p>“It’s a little bit of a crossroads for Erdogan,” Van Hollen said in a recent interview. “He’s going to have to make a decision — is he going to be the faithful NATO ally, or is he going to go it alone in the region?”</p>

<p>Congress is poised this week to approve economic sanctions against Turkey for buying Russian missile defense systems early in Trump’s term, potentially exposing NATO military technology to Moscow. Trump stalled the sanctions last year, after the defense systems were delivered to Turkey.</p>

<p>For the first time, and after Ankara tested the system this fall, White House officials have informed Turkish diplomats that the Trump administration will not oppose the congressional sanctions, according to two people involved in the discussions.</p>

<p>Instead, they said, the sanctions are meant in part to warn Egypt, India, Saudi Arabia and other nations that have signaled interest in purchasing Russian military equipment.</p>

<p>At a meeting of foreign ministers from NATO nations last week, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized Turkey on several fronts, according to a person briefed on his comments. His statements — against Turkey’s defense purchases, its exploration of natural gas in disputed waters in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and its support of foreign forces in external conflicts such as Libya — showed that Pompeo had wearied of trying to temper rising tensions among European allies and American lawmakers.</p>

<p>“We are concerned about some of the Turkish behavior,” Kay Bailey Hutchison, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, told reporters ahead of the foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels. “The idea that you could put a Russian-made missile defense system in the middle of our alliance is out of bounds.”</p>

<p>The European Union is weighing its own sanctions against Turkey as retaliation for separate disputes with Greece, Cyprus and Germany in a decision that could come as soon as Thursday, according to a European diplomat in Washington.</p>

<p>Taken together, Turkey is feeling increasingly isolated, according to a senior official in its government.</p>

<p>Last month’s basing of a U.S. Navy expeditionary ship at Souda Bay, off the Greek coast, signaled that Turkey was no longer the key U.S. ally in the Eastern Mediterranean, the senior official said.</p>

<p>The Abraham accords brokered this fall by the Trump administration — fostering normalized relationships among Israel and three Arab states, Bahrain, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates — harnessed Middle Eastern countries that are hostile to the Muslim Brotherhood. The Islamist movement is supported by Erdogan.</p>

<p>The senior Turkish official also described feeling snubbed by Pompeo’s visits this fall to rivals in Cyprus and Greece and then his tour of Istanbul with his wife in November instead of going to Ankara to meet with government leaders.</p>

<p>The expected sanctions are sure to hammer Turkey’s already strained economy and may force Erdogan to pull back from most of his military missions abroad. (One exception would be in neighboring Syria, where Turkey is battling Islamic State militants and American-backed Kurdish fighters; Erdogan considers both of the groups to be terrorists and is unlikely to retreat.)</p>

<p>Experts warn that this could push Turkey into Russia’s arms if Biden is not careful.</p>

<p>“Relations with Turkey will be a major, urgent question for the Biden administration,” said James F. Jeffrey, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey and Iraq who retired last month as the State Department’s special envoy for Syria policy and the coalition to defeat the Islamic State.</p>

<p>“Given the country’s size, location, economic and military power, and the pro-Western sentiments of the population — if not its president — does it make sense to sideline Turkey or push it into the Russian camp?” Jeffrey said.</p>

<p>He noted that Turkey and Russia have been on opposite sides in ongoing conflicts in Syria, Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. It also remains a critical NATO ally in Iraq and Afghanistan, and opposes Iran’s regional advances.</p>

<p>The senior Turkish official described Erdogan’s interests as ultimately having more in common with the West than with Russia. But, he said, how the Biden administration approaches the dispute over the missile defense systems will be a first test.</p>

<p>It is far from certain a compromise can be struck. But the Turkish official said Biden’s advisers have indicated in low-level discussions they were open to considering compromises as they are proposed, including convening a NATO working group to look at whether Russia could indeed penetrate Western military systems through the missile defense systems.</p>

<p>A spokesman for Biden’s transition team declined to comment.</p>

<p>The senior Turkish official also said that Biden’s advisers have made clear they will engage with Turkey through traditional and technical diplomatic channels — and not rely on the kind of spontaneous and direct lines of communication that marked the relationship between Trump and Erdogan.</p>

<p>That was welcome news to the Turks, the senior official said.</p>


WASHINGTON — No longer restrained by President Donald Trump’s affection for Turkey’s authoritarian leader, U.S. officials and Congress are using the waning days of his presidency to ready sanctions and strike a strident tone against the strategic but unreliable ally.

WASHINGTON — No longer restrained by President Donald Trump’s affection for Turkey’s authoritarian leader, U.S. officials and Congress are using the waning days of his presidency to ready sanctions and strike a strident tone against the strategic but unreliable ally. Turkey, a member of NATO, has vexed the administration almost since its start. That has been as much Trump’s doing — and his admiration for its president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan — as that of actions by the government in Ankara, which has abused human rights, imprisoned Americans and journalists, and muscled into confrontations from Syria to Libya to the Caucasus to the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Watch | The redirection of U.S. policy also will require President-elect Joe Biden to carefully bring Turkey back into the West’s embrace and keep from pushing it closer to Russia. “For years, President Trump has personally shielded Erdogan and Turkey,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md. He said the incoming Biden administration “will be an important check on Erdogan’s efforts to expand his influence at our expense, in a way that undermines our interests.” “It’s a little bit of a crossroads for Erdogan,” Van Hollen said in a recent interview. “He’s going to have to make a decision — is he going to be the faithful NATO ally, or is he going to go it alone in the region?” Congress is poised this week to approve economic sanctions against Turkey for buying Russian missile defense systems early in Trump’s term, potentially exposing NATO military technology to Moscow. Trump stalled the sanctions last year, after the defense systems were delivered to Turkey. For the first time, and after Ankara tested the system this fall, White House officials have informed Turkish diplomats that the Trump administration will not oppose the congressional sanctions, according to two people involved in the discussions. Instead, they said, the sanctions are meant in part to warn Egypt, India, Saudi Arabia and other nations that have signaled interest in purchasing Russian military equipment. At a meeting of foreign ministers from NATO nations last week, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized Turkey on several fronts, according to a person briefed on his comments. His statements — against Turkey’s defense purchases, its exploration of natural gas in disputed waters in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and its support of foreign forces in external conflicts such as Libya — showed that Pompeo had wearied of trying to temper rising tensions among European allies and American lawmakers. “We are concerned about some of the Turkish behavior,” Kay Bailey Hutchison, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, told reporters ahead of the foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels. “The idea that you could put a Russian-made missile defense system in the middle of our alliance is out of bounds.” The European Union is weighing its own sanctions against Turkey as retaliation for separate disputes with Greece, Cyprus and Germany in a decision that could come as soon as Thursday, according to a European diplomat in Washington. Taken together, Turkey is feeling increasingly isolated, according to a senior official in its government. Last month’s basing of a U.S. Navy expeditionary ship at Souda Bay, off the Greek coast, signaled that Turkey was no longer the key U.S. ally in the Eastern Mediterranean, the senior official said. The Abraham accords brokered this fall by the Trump administration — fostering normalized relationships among Israel and three Arab states, Bahrain, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates — harnessed Middle Eastern countries that are hostile to the Muslim Brotherhood. The Islamist movement is supported by Erdogan. The senior Turkish official also described feeling snubbed by Pompeo’s visits this fall to rivals in Cyprus and Greece and then his tour of Istanbul with his wife in November instead of going to Ankara to meet with government leaders. The expected sanctions are sure to hammer Turkey’s already strained economy and may force Erdogan to pull back from most of his military missions abroad. (One exception would be in neighboring Syria, where Turkey is battling Islamic State militants and American-backed Kurdish fighters; Erdogan considers both of the groups to be terrorists and is unlikely to retreat.) Experts warn that this could push Turkey into Russia’s arms if Biden is not careful. “Relations with Turkey will be a major, urgent question for the Biden administration,” said James F. Jeffrey, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey and Iraq who retired last month as the State Department’s special envoy for Syria policy and the coalition to defeat the Islamic State. “Given the country’s size, location, economic and military power, and the pro-Western sentiments of the population — if not its president — does it make sense to sideline Turkey or push it into the Russian camp?” Jeffrey said. He noted that Turkey and Russia have been on opposite sides in ongoing conflicts in Syria, Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. It also remains a critical NATO ally in Iraq and Afghanistan, and opposes Iran’s regional advances. The senior Turkish official described Erdogan’s interests as ultimately having more in common with the West than with Russia. But, he said, how the Biden administration approaches the dispute over the missile defense systems will be a first test. It is far from certain a compromise can be struck. But the Turkish official said Biden’s advisers have indicated in low-level discussions they were open to considering compromises as they are proposed, including convening a NATO working group to look at whether Russia could indeed penetrate Western military systems through the missile defense systems. A spokesman for Biden’s transition team declined to comment. The senior Turkish official also said that Biden’s advisers have made clear they will engage with Turkey through traditional and technical diplomatic channels — and not rely on the kind of spontaneous and direct lines of communication that marked the relationship between Trump and Erdogan. That was welcome news to the Turks, the senior official said.

US takes tougher tone with Turkey as Trump exits

<p>French Prime Minister&nbsp;Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''.</p>

<p>After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-france-is-doing-to-rein-in-radical-islam-338155/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"The enemy of the Republic is a political ideology called radical Islamism, which aims to divide the French among themselves," Prime Minister Jean Castex told Wednesday's edition of Le Monde.</p>

<p>France argues&nbsp;that rather than targeting Muslims the anti-extremism bill aims&nbsp;to "free Muslims from the growing grip of radical Islamism".</p>

<p>The legislation will be discussed at a cabinet meeting at the Elysee Palace with Castex announcing the outcome in the early afternoon.</p>

<p>It&nbsp;has&nbsp;been criticised by Muslim leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan while on Tuesday the US envoy on international religious freedom said he was concerned by the bill.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-gives-ultimatum-to-french-council-of-muslim-faith-344419">France gives ultimatum to French Council of Muslim Faith</a></strong></p>

<p>"There can be constructive engagements that I think can be helpful and not harmful," Ambassador Sam Brownback told reporters.</p>

<p>"When you get heavy-handed, the situation can get worse," he said.</p>

<p><strong>'Strengthen republican values'</strong></p>

<p>The text was originally titled the "anti-separatism" bill, using a term President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;uses to describe ultra-conservative Muslims withdrawing from mainstream society.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following criticism of that term, it is now called a "draft law to strengthen republican values", mostly secularism and freedom of expression.</p>

<p>The law was in the pipeline before the murder in October of Samuel Paty, a junior high school teacher who was attacked in the street and beheaded after showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in a class.</p>

<p>But the killing, committed by an 18-year old Chechen after a virulent social media campaign against the teacher, gave fresh impetus to the bill, prompted the inclusion of the specific crimes of online hate speech and divulging personal information on the internet.</p>

<p>Paty's death is one in a string of jihadist-inspired attacks in France this year including a knife assault outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine and deadly stabbings at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice.</p>

<p>The draft law sets out stricter criteria for authorising home schooling of children over three years old in a bid to prevent parents taking their children out of public schools and enrolling them in underground Islamic facilities.</p>

<p>Doctors, meanwhile, would be fined or jailed if they performed a virginity test on girls.</p>

<p>Polygamy is already outlawed in France, but the new law would also ban authorities from issuing residency papers to polygamous applicants.</p>

<p>It would also require city hall officials to interview couples separately prior to their wedding to make sure that they were not forced into marriage.</p>

<p><strong>'Open provocation'</strong></p>

<p>Macron has become a figure of hate in some Muslim countries, with some boycotting French products, after saying that the right to blaspheme would always be guaranteed in France and that Islam was "in crisis".</p>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called the draft law an "open provocation", while scholars at Egypt's prestigious Sunni Islamic institution, Al-Azhar, called Macron's views "racist".</p>

<p>Macron has also been forced onto the defensive by critical headlines in influential English-language media, such as the Financial Times and New York Times.</p>

<p>Muslims in France -- the former colonies of which include predominantly Muslim countries in north and west Africa as well as the Middle East -- are estimated at nearly four million, about six percent of the population.</p>

<p>Once, as is expected, the cabinet backs the draft law, it heads to parliament at the start of next year for what promises to be a heated debate.</p>

<p>France's state council, which advises the government and the National Assembly on future laws, has already signalled that some parts of the bill, especially on education, may clash with the principle of freedom of choice enshrined in the French constitution.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


French Prime Minister Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''. After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community.

French Prime Minister Jean Castex on Wednesday defended the anti-extremism bill combatting "radical Islamism" as the ''law of freedom''. After a spate of attacks, which critics fear risks targeting all Muslims, France argues the legislation is needed to shore up the country's staunchly secular system but the plan has further stirred up social tensions over the consequences for Europe's largest Muslim community. "The enemy of the Republic is a political ideology called radical Islamism, which aims to divide the French among themselves," Prime Minister Jean Castex told Wednesday's edition of Le Monde. France argues that rather than targeting Muslims the anti-extremism bill aims to "free Muslims from the growing grip of radical Islamism". The legislation will be discussed at a cabinet meeting at the Elysee Palace with Castex announcing the outcome in the early afternoon. It has been criticised by Muslim leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan while on Tuesday the US envoy on international religious freedom said he was concerned by the bill. Also read: France gives ultimatum to French Council of Muslim Faith "There can be constructive engagements that I think can be helpful and not harmful," Ambassador Sam Brownback told reporters. "When you get heavy-handed, the situation can get worse," he said. 'Strengthen republican values' The text was originally titled the "anti-separatism" bill, using a term President Emmanuel Macron uses to describe ultra-conservative Muslims withdrawing from mainstream society. Following criticism of that term, it is now called a "draft law to strengthen republican values", mostly secularism and freedom of expression. The law was in the pipeline before the murder in October of Samuel Paty, a junior high school teacher who was attacked in the street and beheaded after showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in a class. But the killing, committed by an 18-year old Chechen after a virulent social media campaign against the teacher, gave fresh impetus to the bill, prompted the inclusion of the specific crimes of online hate speech and divulging personal information on the internet. Paty's death is one in a string of jihadist-inspired attacks in France this year including a knife assault outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine and deadly stabbings at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice. The draft law sets out stricter criteria for authorising home schooling of children over three years old in a bid to prevent parents taking their children out of public schools and enrolling them in underground Islamic facilities. Doctors, meanwhile, would be fined or jailed if they performed a virginity test on girls. Polygamy is already outlawed in France, but the new law would also ban authorities from issuing residency papers to polygamous applicants. It would also require city hall officials to interview couples separately prior to their wedding to make sure that they were not forced into marriage. 'Open provocation' Macron has become a figure of hate in some Muslim countries, with some boycotting French products, after saying that the right to blaspheme would always be guaranteed in France and that Islam was "in crisis". Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called the draft law an "open provocation", while scholars at Egypt's prestigious Sunni Islamic institution, Al-Azhar, called Macron's views "racist". Macron has also been forced onto the defensive by critical headlines in influential English-language media, such as the Financial Times and New York Times. Muslims in France -- the former colonies of which include predominantly Muslim countries in north and west Africa as well as the Middle East -- are estimated at nearly four million, about six percent of the population. Once, as is expected, the cabinet backs the draft law, it heads to parliament at the start of next year for what promises to be a heated debate. France's state council, which advises the government and the National Assembly on future laws, has already signalled that some parts of the bill, especially on education, may clash with the principle of freedom of choice enshrined in the French constitution.

Enemy of the Republic is political ideology called radical Islamism: French PM Castex

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that his country would not “bow down to threats and blackmail" in his disputes with Greece. This comes as European Union foreign ministers meet in Brussels to discuss the issue of sanctions over the dispute.

Prez Erdogan says, Turkey will not bow to threats

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said he hoped France would soon get rid of President Emmanuel Macron, describing him as a burden on France which was enduring dangerous times.</p>

<p>"Macron is a trouble for France. With Macron, France is passing through a very, very dangerous period. I hope that France will get rid of Macron trouble as soon as possible," Erdogan told reporters after Friday prayers in Istanbul.</p>

<p>There have been weeks of tensions between France and Turkey, which reached a peak last month after the beheading of a French schoolteacher who showed his pupils cartoons mocking Islam's Prophet Mohammed.</p>

<p>In the wake of the beheading of history teacher Samuel Paty in France, President Emmanuel Macron delivered a passionate defence of free speech, including the right to mock religion, prompting Erdogan to question his mental health. France responded by recalling its ambassador to Ankara for consultations.</p>

<p>In an interview, Macron accused Turkey of adopting a "bellicose" stance towards its NATO allies, saying tensions could ease if Erdogan showed respect and did not tell lies.</p>

<p>Following a spate of Islamist attacks in recent weeks, France has&nbsp;been taking steps to ban radical Islamist groups and to cut off foreign funds to them.</p>

<p>Ankara and Paris have also traded accusations over their roles in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;attacked France over its perceived backing for Armenia.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-pushes-for-sanctions-against-turkey-at-the-european-union-347317/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Erdogan also said "As you know, my dear brother (Azerbaijan president) Ilham Aliyev had some advice for the French. What did he say? 'If they love Armenians so much, then they should give Marseilles to the Armenians'. I am making the same recommendation. If they love them so much, they should give Marseilles to the Armenians."</p>

<p>France has accused Turkey of fueling clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but populated by ethnic Armenians. Ankara, which backs its ethnic Turkic kin in Azerbaijan, denies this.</p>

<p>The Macron government is reportedly leading a diplomatic effort for sanctions against Turkey at the European Union. The plan is to target Turkey over its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean which is a region rich in natural resources where Greece and Turkey have overlapping claims.</p>


Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said he hoped France would soon get rid of President Emmanuel Macron, describing him as a burden on France which was enduring dangerous times.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday said he hoped France would soon get rid of President Emmanuel Macron, describing him as a burden on France which was enduring dangerous times. "Macron is a trouble for France. With Macron, France is passing through a very, very dangerous period. I hope that France will get rid of Macron trouble as soon as possible," Erdogan told reporters after Friday prayers in Istanbul. There have been weeks of tensions between France and Turkey, which reached a peak last month after the beheading of a French schoolteacher who showed his pupils cartoons mocking Islam's Prophet Mohammed. In the wake of the beheading of history teacher Samuel Paty in France, President Emmanuel Macron delivered a passionate defence of free speech, including the right to mock religion, prompting Erdogan to question his mental health. France responded by recalling its ambassador to Ankara for consultations. In an interview, Macron accused Turkey of adopting a "bellicose" stance towards its NATO allies, saying tensions could ease if Erdogan showed respect and did not tell lies. Following a spate of Islamist attacks in recent weeks, France has been taking steps to ban radical Islamist groups and to cut off foreign funds to them. Ankara and Paris have also traded accusations over their roles in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Erdogan attacked France over its perceived backing for Armenia. Erdogan also said "As you know, my dear brother (Azerbaijan president) Ilham Aliyev had some advice for the French. What did he say? 'If they love Armenians so much, then they should give Marseilles to the Armenians'. I am making the same recommendation. If they love them so much, they should give Marseilles to the Armenians." France has accused Turkey of fueling clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but populated by ethnic Armenians. Ankara, which backs its ethnic Turkic kin in Azerbaijan, denies this. The Macron government is reportedly leading a diplomatic effort for sanctions against Turkey at the European Union. The plan is to target Turkey over its provocations in the eastern Mediterranean which is a region rich in natural resources where Greece and Turkey have overlapping claims.

I hope France will get rid of Macron, says Turkey President Erdogan

<p>A Turkish court on Thursday jailed 337 former pilots and other suspects for life in one of the largest trials stemming from the bloody 2016 coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.</p>

<p>They were convicted of crimes including murder, trying to overthrow the constitutional order, and attempting to assassinate&nbsp;Erdogan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-coup-anniversary-in-speech-erdogan-threatens-to-chop-off-traitors-heads-17955">Turkey coup anniversary: Erdogan threatens to 'chop off traitors' heads in speech</a></strong></p>

<p>More than 250 people were killed on July 15, 2016, when Turkey witnessed the bloodiest coup attempt in its political history. Rogue soldiers commandeered warplanes, helicopters and tanks and sought to take control of state institutions and overthrow the government of President Tayyip Erdogan.</p>

<p><img alt="F" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="963b6546-5ecd-44af-a6f2-df7c7d898246" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_29.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>In picture: Thousands of ordinary citizens took to the streets to oppose the attempted coup in Turkey/Reuters</strong></p>

<p>The trial was the highest profile of dozens of court cases targeting thousands of people accused of involvement in the coup attempt, which Ankara blamed on supporters of the US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen.</p>

<p>Former air force commander Akin Ozturk and others at the Akinci air base near Ankara were accused of directing the coup and bombing government buildings, including parliament, and attempting to kill Erdogan.</p>

<p><img alt="F" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ddd99503-a238-4394-8c82-77be99e9cf51" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/e373c36a960b4778a992a3d6f95c0782_18.jpeg" /></p>

<p><strong>In picture:&nbsp;US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen at his home in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania [Charles Mostoller/Reuters]</strong></p>

<p>Four ringleaders, dubbed "civilian imams" over ties to Gulen's network, were given 79 aggravated life sentences for charges of attempting to assassinate the president, murder, and seeking to overthrow the constitutional order, state-owned Anadolu news agency said.</p>

<p>F-16 warplane pilots were also among those given aggravated life sentences - the severest punishment in Turkish courts - meaning there is no possibility of parole.</p>

<p>Turkey's then-military chief and now defence minister Hulusi Akar and other commanders were held captive for several hours at the base on the night of the coup. A total of 475 people were on trial, 365 of them in custody.</p>

<p><strong>Sustained crackdown</strong></p>

<p>The 79-year-old cleric Gulen, who was once an ally of Erdogan and has denied any role in the coup, was one of six defendants being tried in absentia. Their dossiers were separated from the main trial, media reports said.</p>

<p>The government declared a state of emergency in&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;- a NATO member and candidate for European Union membership - after the failed coup and carried out a large-scale crackdown which alarmed Ankara's Western allies.</p>

<p>Some 292,000 people have been detained over alleged links to Gulen, nearly 100,000 of them jailed pending trial, Anadolu cited Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu as saying.</p>

<p>Some 150,000 civil servants were sacked or suspended after the coup, with some 20,000 expelled from the military. Courts have handed down more than 2,500 life sentences.</p>

<p>Four years on, police operations targeting suspects accused of links to Gulen continue on a regular basis.</p>

<p>The government has said the crackdown was needed given the security challenges which&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;has faced to root out a network of Gulen supporters deeply embedded in the state apparatus.</p>


A Turkish court on Thursday jailed 337 former pilots and other suspects for life in one of the largest trials stemming from the bloody 2016 coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

A Turkish court on Thursday jailed 337 former pilots and other suspects for life in one of the largest trials stemming from the bloody 2016 coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. They were convicted of crimes including murder, trying to overthrow the constitutional order, and attempting to assassinate Erdogan. Also read| Turkey coup anniversary: Erdogan threatens to 'chop off traitors' heads in speech More than 250 people were killed on July 15, 2016, when Turkey witnessed the bloodiest coup attempt in its political history. Rogue soldiers commandeered warplanes, helicopters and tanks and sought to take control of state institutions and overthrow the government of President Tayyip Erdogan. In picture: Thousands of ordinary citizens took to the streets to oppose the attempted coup in Turkey/Reuters The trial was the highest profile of dozens of court cases targeting thousands of people accused of involvement in the coup attempt, which Ankara blamed on supporters of the US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen. Former air force commander Akin Ozturk and others at the Akinci air base near Ankara were accused of directing the coup and bombing government buildings, including parliament, and attempting to kill Erdogan. In picture: US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen at his home in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania [Charles Mostoller/Reuters] Four ringleaders, dubbed "civilian imams" over ties to Gulen's network, were given 79 aggravated life sentences for charges of attempting to assassinate the president, murder, and seeking to overthrow the constitutional order, state-owned Anadolu news agency said. F-16 warplane pilots were also among those given aggravated life sentences - the severest punishment in Turkish courts - meaning there is no possibility of parole. Turkey's then-military chief and now defence minister Hulusi Akar and other commanders were held captive for several hours at the base on the night of the coup. A total of 475 people were on trial, 365 of them in custody. Sustained crackdown The 79-year-old cleric Gulen, who was once an ally of Erdogan and has denied any role in the coup, was one of six defendants being tried in absentia. Their dossiers were separated from the main trial, media reports said. The government declared a state of emergency in Turkey - a NATO member and candidate for European Union membership - after the failed coup and carried out a large-scale crackdown which alarmed Ankara's Western allies. Some 292,000 people have been detained over alleged links to Gulen, nearly 100,000 of them jailed pending trial, Anadolu cited Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu as saying. Some 150,000 civil servants were sacked or suspended after the coup, with some 20,000 expelled from the military. Courts have handed down more than 2,500 life sentences. Four years on, police operations targeting suspects accused of links to Gulen continue on a regular basis. The government has said the crackdown was needed given the security challenges which Turkey has faced to root out a network of Gulen supporters deeply embedded in the state apparatus.

Turkey announces life imprisonment for convicts in 'bloodiest coup' against Erdogan

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that his country, an official candidate for European Union membership, sees itself as an inseparable part of Europe but will not give in to attacks and double standards.

Erdogan says Turkey sees itself a part of Europe

<p>Turkish President&nbsp;Recep&nbsp;Tayyip Erdogan's&nbsp;outreach to his country's diaspora&nbsp;is inflaming tensions with Europe.</p>

<p>From stoking the rage of extremists to justifying violence in the name of terror, Erdogan has been lambasted by European leaders for several reasons.</p>

<p>However, now Erdogan has taken a u-turn and decided to play the victim card. He said on Sunday that his country, an official candidate for European Union membership, sees itself as an inseparable part of Europe but will not give in to attacks and double standards.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-accuses-turkey-of-obstructing-libya-peace-344921" hreflang="en">Germany accuses Turkey of obstructing Libya peace</a></strong></p>

<p>At one point Turkey had pursued a track towards EU membership, but it encountered opposition from several EU members and has pulled back under&nbsp;Erdogan's leadership.</p>

<p>But on Saturday he said: "We don't see ourselves elsewhere but in Europe. We envisage building our future together with Europe."</p>

<p>Turkey has no problem with any country or institution "that cannot be resolved through politics, diplomacy or dialogue," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-greece-turkey-are-fighting-over-hydrocarbons-in-mediterranean-sea-320304">Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea</a></strong></p>

<p>Erdogan's message comes as EU leaders are to decide at a December summit whether to impose further sanctions in response to recent Turkish activity.</p>

<p>Its exploration ship Oruc Reis remains at the centre of tensions with Brussels and on Saturday, Ankara extended its mission until November 29, despite protests from Athens.</p>

<p>A Greek foreign ministry statement denounced the move as "illegal conduct, which further undermines any prospect for a constructive dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These actions, which essentially cancel any prospect for improving EU-Turkey relations, are taking place, while Turkish officials state that their country's accession to the EU is a 'strategic priority,'" the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey's drilling activities in a disputed part of the eastern Mediterranean have raised tensions with the EU as Turkey locked in a dispute with and Greece and Cyprus over the extent of their continental shelves and hydrocarbon resources.</p>

<p>EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said this month that Turkey's rhetoric on Cyprus was aggravating tensions with the EU and Ankara had to understand that its behaviour was "widening its separation" from the bloc.</p>

<p>The EU will discuss Turkey's pursuit of natural gas exploration in contested waters in the eastern Mediterranean at their next summit in December, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday.</p>

<p>"We do not believe that we have any problems with countries or institutions that cannot be solved through politics, dialogue and negotiations,"&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>Erdogan, connected to the event through videolink, said that the EU should keep its promises regarding the migrants issue and making Turkey a full member of the bloc. He was referring to a 2016 deal under which Ankara curbed migrant entries into Europe in exchange for financial help and visa-free travel in the Schengen region.</p>

<p>Turkey recently extended the seismic survey work being carried out by its Oruc Reis ship in a disputed part of the eastern Mediterranean until Nov. 29, according to a naval notice.</p>


Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's outreach to his country's diaspora is inflaming tensions with Europe. From stoking the rage of extremists to justifying violence in the name of terror, Erdogan has been lambasted by European leaders for several reasons.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's outreach to his country's diaspora is inflaming tensions with Europe. From stoking the rage of extremists to justifying violence in the name of terror, Erdogan has been lambasted by European leaders for several reasons. However, now Erdogan has taken a u-turn and decided to play the victim card. He said on Sunday that his country, an official candidate for European Union membership, sees itself as an inseparable part of Europe but will not give in to attacks and double standards. Also read: Germany accuses Turkey of obstructing Libya peace At one point Turkey had pursued a track towards EU membership, but it encountered opposition from several EU members and has pulled back under Erdogan's leadership. But on Saturday he said: "We don't see ourselves elsewhere but in Europe. We envisage building our future together with Europe." Turkey has no problem with any country or institution "that cannot be resolved through politics, diplomacy or dialogue," he added. Also read: Why Greece, Turkey are fighting over hydrocarbons in Mediterranean Sea Erdogan's message comes as EU leaders are to decide at a December summit whether to impose further sanctions in response to recent Turkish activity. Its exploration ship Oruc Reis remains at the centre of tensions with Brussels and on Saturday, Ankara extended its mission until November 29, despite protests from Athens. A Greek foreign ministry statement denounced the move as "illegal conduct, which further undermines any prospect for a constructive dialogue. "These actions, which essentially cancel any prospect for improving EU-Turkey relations, are taking place, while Turkish officials state that their country's accession to the EU is a 'strategic priority,'" the ministry said. Turkey's drilling activities in a disputed part of the eastern Mediterranean have raised tensions with the EU as Turkey locked in a dispute with and Greece and Cyprus over the extent of their continental shelves and hydrocarbon resources. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said this month that Turkey's rhetoric on Cyprus was aggravating tensions with the EU and Ankara had to understand that its behaviour was "widening its separation" from the bloc. The EU will discuss Turkey's pursuit of natural gas exploration in contested waters in the eastern Mediterranean at their next summit in December, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday. "We do not believe that we have any problems with countries or institutions that cannot be solved through politics, dialogue and negotiations," Erdogan said. Erdogan, connected to the event through videolink, said that the EU should keep its promises regarding the migrants issue and making Turkey a full member of the bloc. He was referring to a 2016 deal under which Ankara curbed migrant entries into Europe in exchange for financial help and visa-free travel in the Schengen region. Turkey recently extended the seismic survey work being carried out by its Oruc Reis ship in a disputed part of the eastern Mediterranean until Nov. 29, according to a naval notice.

Turkey's outreach to Europe is inflaming tensions

<p>Istanbul's mayor&nbsp;Ekrem Imamoglu, is being probed for opposing&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's dream of building an alternative to the Bosphorus Strait, according to his spokesman.</p>

<p>While,&nbsp;Erdogan argues that the new Istanbul canal, which he has dubbed one of his "crazy projects", would relieve pressure on one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.&nbsp;Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, whose election last year saw Erdogan's ruling AK Party lose its 25-year grip on Turkey's largest city, has been a vocal opponent of the project on financial and environmental grounds.</p>

<p>The Bosphorus creates a border between Europe and Asia, splitting Istanbul in two as it runs between the Black and Marmara Seas.</p>

<p>The proposed 75-billion-lira ($9.8-billion) alternative would run to the west of the Bosphorus along a new 45-kilometre (28-mile) route.</p>

<p>The investigation by the ministry's property inspectorate is focused on posters containing the phrases, "Either Canal or Istanbul" and "Who needs Canal Istanbul?", Imamoglu's spokesman Murat Ongun tweeted.</p>

<p>The investigation was started on the grounds that the posters violated articles of the constitution prohibiting public resources from being used against "the integrity of the administration and state policy," Ongun said.</p>

<p>Critics say the project would destroy nature and could even worsen the earthquake risk in the city of more than 15 million people.</p>


Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, is being probed for opposing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's dream of building an alternative to the Bosphorus Strait, according to his spokesman.

Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, is being probed for opposing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's dream of building an alternative to the Bosphorus Strait, according to his spokesman. While, Erdogan argues that the new Istanbul canal, which he has dubbed one of his "crazy projects", would relieve pressure on one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, whose election last year saw Erdogan's ruling AK Party lose its 25-year grip on Turkey's largest city, has been a vocal opponent of the project on financial and environmental grounds. The Bosphorus creates a border between Europe and Asia, splitting Istanbul in two as it runs between the Black and Marmara Seas. The proposed 75-billion-lira ($9.8-billion) alternative would run to the west of the Bosphorus along a new 45-kilometre (28-mile) route. The investigation by the ministry's property inspectorate is focused on posters containing the phrases, "Either Canal or Istanbul" and "Who needs Canal Istanbul?", Imamoglu's spokesman Murat Ongun tweeted. The investigation was started on the grounds that the posters violated articles of the constitution prohibiting public resources from being used against "the integrity of the administration and state policy," Ongun said. Critics say the project would destroy nature and could even worsen the earthquake risk in the city of more than 15 million people.

Istanbul's mayor being investigated for opposing Erdogan's dream project

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Cyprus was made of "two separate states". His comments came during his visit to the breakaway Turkish held northern part of Cyprus island. The visit has already been decried as "provocation" by Cyprus. Erdogan's comments have further diminished hopes of reunification of the island into a single country.</p>

<p>"There are two peoples and two separate states in Cyprus," said Erdogan. "There must be talks for a solution on the basis of two separate states."</p>

<p>During his visit, Turkish jets left vapour trails in the sky in the shape of the star and crescent of the Turkish flag -- mirroring a huge flag painted decades ago on a rocky mountainside in the north.</p>

<p>Erdogan's visit to the Turkish-held statelet recognised only by Ankara comes amid heightened tensions on the island and in the Eastern Mediterranean and was condemned as a "provocation without precedent" by the Republic of Cyprus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His trip marked the 37th anniversary of the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) where an estimated 30,000 Turkish troops are stationed. TRNC has recognition only from Turkey.</p>

<p>The Turkish president was later to attend a "picnic" in the disputed beachfront area of Varosha along the UN buffer zone that has divided the island since Turkey's invasion.</p>

<p><strong>(With AFP inputs)</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Cyprus was made of "two separate states". His comments came during his visit to the breakaway Turkish held northern part of Cyprus island.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that Cyprus was made of "two separate states". His comments came during his visit to the breakaway Turkish held northern part of Cyprus island. The visit has already been decried as "provocation" by Cyprus. Erdogan's comments have further diminished hopes of reunification of the island into a single country. "There are two peoples and two separate states in Cyprus," said Erdogan. "There must be talks for a solution on the basis of two separate states." During his visit, Turkish jets left vapour trails in the sky in the shape of the star and crescent of the Turkish flag -- mirroring a huge flag painted decades ago on a rocky mountainside in the north. Erdogan's visit to the Turkish-held statelet recognised only by Ankara comes amid heightened tensions on the island and in the Eastern Mediterranean and was condemned as a "provocation without precedent" by the Republic of Cyprus. His trip marked the 37th anniversary of the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) where an estimated 30,000 Turkish troops are stationed. TRNC has recognition only from Turkey. The Turkish president was later to attend a "picnic" in the disputed beachfront area of Varosha along the UN buffer zone that has divided the island since Turkey's invasion. (With AFP inputs)

Cyprus made up of 'two separate states', says Erdogan

<p>Gli, the famous 16-year-old beloved feline that made Istanbul's Hagia Sophia her own, has died of old age.</p>

<p>Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya announced the news on his Twitter account with the&nbsp;caption&nbsp;''Hagia Sophia's cat Gli, who was being treated at a private veterinary clinic (Istanbul's) Levent (district) since Sept 24, unfortunately, passed away due to her old age.''</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tr">Gli’yi kaybetmenin üzüntüsünü yaşıyorum.<br />
<br />
24 Eylül tarihinden beri Levent'teki özel bir veteriner kliniğinde tedavi gören <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ayasofya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ayasofya</a>’nın kedisi Gli yaşlılığa bağlı olarak maalesef yaşamını yitirdi.😔<br />
<br />
Seni hiç unutmayacağız <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gli</a> 🐈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyasofyaCami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyasofyaCami</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ly6IXsEMHJ">pic.twitter.com/Ly6IXsEMHJ</a></p>
— Ali Yerlikaya (@AliYerlikaya) <a href="https://twitter.com/AliYerlikaya/status/1325118744084029441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gli, which means 'union of love' of adoration in Turkish, was a mainstream presence at Hagia Sophia, with sightseers frequently scouring the structure to take photos of the green-looked at the cat.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gli, the cat of Hagia Sopia<br />
After being at a vet all week, the 16 year-old cat will now stay in a private room away from visitors for health reason. <a href="https://t.co/XQ35iN6k7y">pic.twitter.com/XQ35iN6k7y</a></p>
— The Byzantine Legacy (@ByzantineLegacy) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByzantineLegacy/status/1307704209245196288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>She rose to fame after she was shot in 2009 being stroked by then US president Barack Obama during a visit to what exactly was then an exhibition hall with Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's leader at that point.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Earlier this year, the 1,500-year-old Unesco World Heritage site changed from being an exhibition hall back to a mosque, after a Turkish court in July denied its status as a gallery. Supplications were offered inside the complex without precedent for a very long time on 24 July.</p>

<p>Information on Gli's passing has incited an overflowing of adoration and sympathies online from the individuals who followed her on her Instagram page.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I cried when I heard the news. One of my wish list is to travel to turkey one day and visit Hagia Sophia to see Gli 😭 <a href="https://t.co/x4mJAGBN8r">https://t.co/x4mJAGBN8r</a></p>
— 💫 (@Ilatrh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ilatrh/status/1325352123404464130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Very sad news for the team personally.<br />
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Gli, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque's favourite feline resident, has died at the age of 16.<br />
<br />
Whenever we visited Hagia Sophia, Gli would always look stunning and beautiful. We will miss her. May she rest in peace 😑<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HagiaSophia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HagiaSophia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gli</a> <a href="https://t.co/PVWmd4FfKg">pic.twitter.com/PVWmd4FfKg</a></p>
— Mughal-Imperial-Archives (@Mughal_imperial) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mughal_imperial/status/1325327905208078336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Umut Bahceci, a tour guide had&nbsp;started an Instagram account for Gli four years ago and now has more than 134,000 followers. It included&nbsp;Uskudar municipality mayor Hilmi Turkman&nbsp;and presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin.</p>

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<p>Gli's Instagram account is filled with photos of the cat, some tagged by the tourists who met her.</p>

<p>Hagia Sophia was a Christian Byzantine cathedral for 900 years before it was seized by Ottoman conquerors and served as a mosque until 1934.</p>


Gli, the famous 16-year-old beloved feline that made Istanbul's Hagia Sophia her own, has died of old age. Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya announced the news on his Twitter account with the caption ''Hagia Sophia's cat Gli, who was being treated at a private veterinary clinic (Istanbul's) Levent (district) since Sept 24, unfortunately, passed away due to her old age.

Gli, the famous 16-year-old beloved feline that made Istanbul's Hagia Sophia her own, has died of old age. Istanbul Governor Ali Yerlikaya announced the news on his Twitter account with the caption ''Hagia Sophia's cat Gli, who was being treated at a private veterinary clinic (Istanbul's) Levent (district) since Sept 24, unfortunately, passed away due to her old age.'' Gli’yi kaybetmenin üzüntüsünü yaşıyorum. 24 Eylül tarihinden beri Levent'teki özel bir veteriner kliniğinde tedavi gören #Ayasofya’nın kedisi Gli yaşlılığa bağlı olarak maalesef yaşamını yitirdi.😔 Seni hiç unutmayacağız #Gli 🐈#AyasofyaCami pic.twitter.com/Ly6IXsEMHJ — Ali Yerlikaya (@AliYerlikaya) November 7, 2020 × Gli, which means 'union of love' of adoration in Turkish, was a mainstream presence at Hagia Sophia, with sightseers frequently scouring the structure to take photos of the green-looked at the cat. Gli, the cat of Hagia Sopia After being at a vet all week, the 16 year-old cat will now stay in a private room away from visitors for health reason. pic.twitter.com/XQ35iN6k7y — The Byzantine Legacy (@ByzantineLegacy) September 20, 2020 × She rose to fame after she was shot in 2009 being stroked by then US president Barack Obama during a visit to what exactly was then an exhibition hall with Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's leader at that point. Earlier this year, the 1,500-year-old Unesco World Heritage site changed from being an exhibition hall back to a mosque, after a Turkish court in July denied its status as a gallery. Supplications were offered inside the complex without precedent for a very long time on 24 July. Information on Gli's passing has incited an overflowing of adoration and sympathies online from the individuals who followed her on her Instagram page. I cried when I heard the news. One of my wish list is to travel to turkey one day and visit Hagia Sophia to see Gli 😭 https://t.co/x4mJAGBN8r — 💫 (@Ilatrh) November 8, 2020 × Very sad news for the team personally. Gli, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque's favourite feline resident, has died at the age of 16. Whenever we visited Hagia Sophia, Gli would always look stunning and beautiful. We will miss her. May she rest in peace 😑#HagiaSophia #Gli pic.twitter.com/PVWmd4FfKg — Mughal-Imperial-Archives (@Mughal_imperial) November 8, 2020 × Umut Bahceci, a tour guide had started an Instagram account for Gli four years ago and now has more than 134,000 followers. It included Uskudar municipality mayor Hilmi Turkman and presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ayasofya Kedisi Gli (@hagiasophiacat) Gli's Instagram account is filled with photos of the cat, some tagged by the tourists who met her. Hagia Sophia was a Christian Byzantine cathedral for 900 years before it was seized by Ottoman conquerors and served as a mosque until 1934.

Gli the cat, who made Istanbul's Hagia Sophia her own, dies of old age

<p>Turkey appointed former deputy prime minister Lutfi Elvan as its treasury and finance minister to replace President Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak, the country's Official Gazette said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The move comes after Finance Minister Berat Albayrak resigned late Sunday and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially accepted his resignation on Monday.</p>

<p>Albayrak said in a surprise statement on Sunday that he was resigning for health reasons, a day after Erdogan appointed former finance minister Naci Agbal as the central bank chief.</p>

<p>The lira surged 6% against the dollar on Monday after the weekend upheaval on analysts' expectations for an interest rate hike that could ease pressure on the currency.</p>

<p>The currency, which had tumbled 30% this year to a series of record lows, weakened 1.6% on Tuesday to 8.1800 from a close of 8.0520 on Monday.</p>

<p>Elvan, from Erdogan's ruling AK Party, was development minister between 2016 and 2018 and before that served as a deputy prime minister.</p>

<p>On Monday, newly-installed governor Naci Agbal said the central bank would "decisively" use all policy tools to achieve its main goal of price stability.</p>

<p>Turkish inflation has held near 12 per cent&nbsp;all year, well above a target of around 5 per cent.</p>


Turkey appointed former deputy prime minister Lutfi Elvan as its treasury and finance minister to replace President Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak, the country's Official Gazette said on Tuesday.

Turkey appointed former deputy prime minister Lutfi Elvan as its treasury and finance minister to replace President Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak, the country's Official Gazette said on Tuesday. The move comes after Finance Minister Berat Albayrak resigned late Sunday and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially accepted his resignation on Monday. Albayrak said in a surprise statement on Sunday that he was resigning for health reasons, a day after Erdogan appointed former finance minister Naci Agbal as the central bank chief. The lira surged 6% against the dollar on Monday after the weekend upheaval on analysts' expectations for an interest rate hike that could ease pressure on the currency. The currency, which had tumbled 30% this year to a series of record lows, weakened 1.6% on Tuesday to 8.1800 from a close of 8.0520 on Monday. Elvan, from Erdogan's ruling AK Party, was development minister between 2016 and 2018 and before that served as a deputy prime minister. On Monday, newly-installed governor Naci Agbal said the central bank would "decisively" use all policy tools to achieve its main goal of price stability. Turkish inflation has held near 12 per cent all year, well above a target of around 5 per cent.

Turkey appoints former deputy Prime Minister Elvan as finance minister

<p>The Turkish lira, one of the world's worst performing currencies, gained around 2.5 percent against the dollar Monday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak stepped down as finance minister. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The lira was 8.19 against the dollar at 0800 GMT, after opening the day at around 8.40.</p>

<p>In an unexpected move, Albayrak, finance minister since 2018, resigned late Sunday citing health concerns.</p>

<p>"After serving in ministerial posts for nearly five years, I took the decision not to continue my duty (as finance minister) due to health issues," he said in a statement on his official Instagram account.</p>

<p>The post created initial confusion among Turkish officials, and it was not clear if Erdogan will approve his resignation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It came just a day after Erdogan ousted central bank governor Murat Uysal, who came under sharp criticism for being unable to prevent the lira from losing roughly a third of its value against the dollar this year.</p>

<p>Former finance minister Naci Agbal replaced Uysal, who served in his role for only 16 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkish media speculated that Albayrak opposed Agbal's appointment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The central bank's new governor said the bank's primary objective was to achieve and maintain price stability.</p>

<p>The central bank "will decisively use all policy tools in pursuit of its price stability objective," Agbal said in a statement, adding that the current situation would be reviewed ahead of the next monetary policy committee meeting on November 19.</p>

<p>During Albayrak's two years as finance minister, Turkey suffered a currency crisis in 2018, before hitting multiple record lows against the dollar this year.</p>

<p>In August, Albayrak drew ire when he downplayed the lira's sharp fall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Are you paid in dollars?" he asked in a live television interview.</p>

<p>"Do you have any business in dollars?" he demanded in comments that went viral on social media at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 42-year-old is married to Erdogan's elder daughter Esra with four children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Albayrak has frequently accompanied Erdogan on foreign trips and policy meetings with world leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu's resignation earlier this year was not approved by the Turkish president. Soylu remains in his post.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Turkish lira, one of the world's worst performing currencies, gained around 2.5 percent against the dollar Monday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak stepped down as finance minister.

The Turkish lira, one of the world's worst performing currencies, gained around 2.5 percent against the dollar Monday after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's son-in-law Berat Albayrak stepped down as finance minister. The lira was 8.19 against the dollar at 0800 GMT, after opening the day at around 8.40. In an unexpected move, Albayrak, finance minister since 2018, resigned late Sunday citing health concerns. "After serving in ministerial posts for nearly five years, I took the decision not to continue my duty (as finance minister) due to health issues," he said in a statement on his official Instagram account. The post created initial confusion among Turkish officials, and it was not clear if Erdogan will approve his resignation. It came just a day after Erdogan ousted central bank governor Murat Uysal, who came under sharp criticism for being unable to prevent the lira from losing roughly a third of its value against the dollar this year. Former finance minister Naci Agbal replaced Uysal, who served in his role for only 16 months. Turkish media speculated that Albayrak opposed Agbal's appointment. The central bank's new governor said the bank's primary objective was to achieve and maintain price stability. The central bank "will decisively use all policy tools in pursuit of its price stability objective," Agbal said in a statement, adding that the current situation would be reviewed ahead of the next monetary policy committee meeting on November 19. During Albayrak's two years as finance minister, Turkey suffered a currency crisis in 2018, before hitting multiple record lows against the dollar this year. In August, Albayrak drew ire when he downplayed the lira's sharp fall. "Are you paid in dollars?" he asked in a live television interview. "Do you have any business in dollars?" he demanded in comments that went viral on social media at the time. The 42-year-old is married to Erdogan's elder daughter Esra with four children. Albayrak has frequently accompanied Erdogan on foreign trips and policy meetings with world leaders. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu's resignation earlier this year was not approved by the Turkish president. Soylu remains in his post.

Turkish lira rallies after Erdogan's son-in-law resigns

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Imran Khan & Dr Mahathir Mohamad gave moral legitimacy to violence in the name of religion. They peddled hatred against Europe & tried justifying Islamic terrorism. Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks: Should they be held accountable for #ViennaTerrorAttack?

Gravitas: Did Islamic leaders incite Vienna terror attack

European Union Nations have been lending their support to French President Emmanuel Macron as calls to boycott French products intensify across the Islamic world. The Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for the boycott of French products while reiterating that Macron needed a 'mental check'.

Erdogan backs calls to boycott France, hurls insults at Macron

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan didn’t mince his words at this month’s opening of parliament. In his first assertion of a claim to a lost non-Turkic part of the Ottoman Empire, Mr Erdogan declared that Jerusalem is Turkish.</p>

<p>“In this city, which we had to leave in tears during the First World War, it is still possible to come across traces of the Ottoman resistance. So Jerusalem is our city, a city from us,” Mr. Erdogan said.</p>

<p>He went on to say that “the current appearance of the Old City, which is the heart of Jerusalem, was built by Suleiman the Magnificent, with its walls, bazaar, and many buildings. Our ancestors showed their respect for centuries by keeping this city in high esteem.”</p>

<p>Mr Erdogan was referring to the 16th century Ottoman sultan, a sponsor of monumental architectural development, who is widely viewed as having protected his Jewish subjects.</p>

<p>In July, Mr. Erdogan described that month’s return of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a sixth century Orthodox-church-turned-mosque-turned-museum, to the status of a Muslim house of worship as paving the way for the “liberation” of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam’s third holiest site.</p>

<p>Mr. Erdogan’s office released a month later a four-minute video clip suggesting that Turkey’s quest for leadership of the Islamic world was as much a military and nationalist endeavor as it was a religious drive. Laced with martial music, the clip meshed religious and Ottoman symbolism. &nbsp;Entitled Golden Apple, the clip ended with a panorama view of Al-Aqsa.</p>

<p>The president, who embeds his often raw nationalism in a religious mantle, can have no illusion that Jerusalem would return to Turkish rule.</p>

<p>Yet, by putting forward his claim, Mr Erdogan hopes to put his quest for leadership of the Muslim world on par with that of one Turkey’s staunchest rivals, Saudi Arabia. The kingdom is home to Islam’s two most sacred cities, Mecca and Medina.</p>

<p>Rather than seeking to regain lost Ottoman territory, Mr. Erdogan is staking a claim to custodianship of Jerusalem’s Haram ash-Sharif or Temple Mount and Al Aqsa mosque compound that currently rests with a Jordanian-controlled religious endowment known as the Waqf.</p>

<p>The president escalated his rhetoric at a moment that the Palestine Authority has reached out to Turkey as well as Qatar in the wake of the normalization of relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain and a series of statements by prominent Saudi and other Gulf leaders taking President Mahmoud Abbas’ administration to task for squandering opportunities for peace with the Jewish state.</p>

<p>Mr. Erdogan’s claim adds to Jordan’s worries that Israel, in the wake of the formalization of its ties to Gulf states, could support Saudi ambitions to join the Hashemite kingdom, if not replace it, as the holy site’s administrator.</p>

<p>Israel Hayom, Israel’s most widely read newspaper that is supportive of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, quoted an unidentified Arab diplomat as saying that Saudi funds were needed to counter Turkish influence in Jerusalem.</p>

<p>“If the Jordanians allow the Turks to operate unhindered at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, within a matter of years their special status in charge of the Waqf and Muslim holy sites would be relegated to being strictly ‘on paper,’” the diplomat was quoted as saying in June.</p>

<p>Raed Daana, a former director of preaching and guidance at the Al-Aqsa Mosque Directorate, said in 2018, in the wake of US President Donald J. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, that Saudi Arabia had secretly invited Palestinian Muslim dignitaries in a bid to garner support for a Saudi role in the Waqf.</p>

<p>Mr Daana attributed the secrecy in part to a refusal to accept the invitation by a number of Palestinian religious figures.</p>

<p>Jordan last year increased the number of members of the Waqf from 11 to 18 in a bid to give it a more a more Muslim rather than exclusively Jordanian flavour and to fend off attempts by regional powers to muscle their way into the body.</p>

<p>The new members included officials of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’ Palestine Authority as well as figures with links to Turkey and Gulf states like Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, a former grand mufti of Jerusalem and Holocaust denier who has defended Mr. Erdogan’s militancy regarding Jerusalem; and Mr. Sabri’s successor, Muhammad Hussein, who had close ties to the United Arab Emirates until he last month barred Emiratis from visiting Al Aqsa in protest against the UAE’s recognition of Israel.</p>

<p>Mr. Erdogan has in recent years been laying the groundwork for his claim with millions of dollars in donations to local Islamic organizations as well as Turkish religious activists and pilgrims in Jerusalem whom Israel has accused of instigating Palestinian protests.</p>

<p>Turkey’s Directorate General for Religious Affairs (Diyanet), that is part of Mr. Erdogan’s office, lists Al-Aqsa as a site for the umrah, the lesser Muslim pilgrimage.</p>

<p>Israeli sources say Turkey’s cultural center in Jerusalem as well as a Turkish renovated coffeeshop two minutes from the city’s Western Wall that is adorned with Turkish and Palestinians flags as well as portraits of Mr. Erdogan and Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II serve as a meeting point for activists and pilgrims.</p>

<p>“Turkey is working diligently to deepen its involvement and influence on the Temple Mount, in the Old City of Jerusalem, and in east Jerusalem neighbourhoods. It is encouraging welfare-religious (dawa) activities…aimed at drawing the Palestinian public toward the Turkish-Islamic heritage and at weakening Israel’s hold on the Old City and east Jerusalem,” said conservative Israeli journalist and analyst Nadav Shragai.</p>

<p><em><strong>A podcast version of this story is available on Soundcloud, Itunes, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker, Pocket Casts, Tumblr, Podbean, Audecibel, Patreon and Castbox.</strong></em></p>

<p><em><strong>Dr James M Dorsey is an award-winning journalist and a senior fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. He is also a senior research fellow at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute and co-director of the University of Wuerzburg’s Institute of Fan Culture in Germany.</strong></em></p>


Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan didn’t mince his words at this month’s opening of parliament. In his first assertion of a claim to a lost non-Turkic part of the Ottoman Empire, Mr Erdogan declared that Jerusalem is Turkish.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan didn’t mince his words at this month’s opening of parliament. In his first assertion of a claim to a lost non-Turkic part of the Ottoman Empire, Mr Erdogan declared that Jerusalem is Turkish. “In this city, which we had to leave in tears during the First World War, it is still possible to come across traces of the Ottoman resistance. So Jerusalem is our city, a city from us,” Mr. Erdogan said. He went on to say that “the current appearance of the Old City, which is the heart of Jerusalem, was built by Suleiman the Magnificent, with its walls, bazaar, and many buildings. Our ancestors showed their respect for centuries by keeping this city in high esteem.” Mr Erdogan was referring to the 16th century Ottoman sultan, a sponsor of monumental architectural development, who is widely viewed as having protected his Jewish subjects. In July, Mr. Erdogan described that month’s return of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a sixth century Orthodox-church-turned-mosque-turned-museum, to the status of a Muslim house of worship as paving the way for the “liberation” of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam’s third holiest site. Mr. Erdogan’s office released a month later a four-minute video clip suggesting that Turkey’s quest for leadership of the Islamic world was as much a military and nationalist endeavor as it was a religious drive. Laced with martial music, the clip meshed religious and Ottoman symbolism. Entitled Golden Apple, the clip ended with a panorama view of Al-Aqsa. The president, who embeds his often raw nationalism in a religious mantle, can have no illusion that Jerusalem would return to Turkish rule. Yet, by putting forward his claim, Mr Erdogan hopes to put his quest for leadership of the Muslim world on par with that of one Turkey’s staunchest rivals, Saudi Arabia. The kingdom is home to Islam’s two most sacred cities, Mecca and Medina. Rather than seeking to regain lost Ottoman territory, Mr. Erdogan is staking a claim to custodianship of Jerusalem’s Haram ash-Sharif or Temple Mount and Al Aqsa mosque compound that currently rests with a Jordanian-controlled religious endowment known as the Waqf. The president escalated his rhetoric at a moment that the Palestine Authority has reached out to Turkey as well as Qatar in the wake of the normalization of relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain and a series of statements by prominent Saudi and other Gulf leaders taking President Mahmoud Abbas’ administration to task for squandering opportunities for peace with the Jewish state. Mr. Erdogan’s claim adds to Jordan’s worries that Israel, in the wake of the formalization of its ties to Gulf states, could support Saudi ambitions to join the Hashemite kingdom, if not replace it, as the holy site’s administrator. Israel Hayom, Israel’s most widely read newspaper that is supportive of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, quoted an unidentified Arab diplomat as saying that Saudi funds were needed to counter Turkish influence in Jerusalem. “If the Jordanians allow the Turks to operate unhindered at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, within a matter of years their special status in charge of the Waqf and Muslim holy sites would be relegated to being strictly ‘on paper,’” the diplomat was quoted as saying in June. Raed Daana, a former director of preaching and guidance at the Al-Aqsa Mosque Directorate, said in 2018, in the wake of US President Donald J. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, that Saudi Arabia had secretly invited Palestinian Muslim dignitaries in a bid to garner support for a Saudi role in the Waqf. Mr Daana attributed the secrecy in part to a refusal to accept the invitation by a number of Palestinian religious figures. Jordan last year increased the number of members of the Waqf from 11 to 18 in a bid to give it a more a more Muslim rather than exclusively Jordanian flavour and to fend off attempts by regional powers to muscle their way into the body. The new members included officials of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’ Palestine Authority as well as figures with links to Turkey and Gulf states like Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, a former grand mufti of Jerusalem and Holocaust denier who has defended Mr. Erdogan’s militancy regarding Jerusalem; and Mr. Sabri’s successor, Muhammad Hussein, who had close ties to the United Arab Emirates until he last month barred Emiratis from visiting Al Aqsa in protest against the UAE’s recognition of Israel. Mr. Erdogan has in recent years been laying the groundwork for his claim with millions of dollars in donations to local Islamic organizations as well as Turkish religious activists and pilgrims in Jerusalem whom Israel has accused of instigating Palestinian protests. Turkey’s Directorate General for Religious Affairs (Diyanet), that is part of Mr. Erdogan’s office, lists Al-Aqsa as a site for the umrah, the lesser Muslim pilgrimage. Israeli sources say Turkey’s cultural center in Jerusalem as well as a Turkish renovated coffeeshop two minutes from the city’s Western Wall that is adorned with Turkish and Palestinians flags as well as portraits of Mr. Erdogan and Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II serve as a meeting point for activists and pilgrims. “Turkey is working diligently to deepen its involvement and influence on the Temple Mount, in the Old City of Jerusalem, and in east Jerusalem neighbourhoods. It is encouraging welfare-religious (dawa) activities…aimed at drawing the Palestinian public toward the Turkish-Islamic heritage and at weakening Israel’s hold on the Old City and east Jerusalem,” said conservative Israeli journalist and analyst Nadav Shragai. A podcast version of this story is available on Soundcloud, Itunes, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker, Pocket Casts, Tumblr, Podbean, Audecibel, Patreon and Castbox. Dr James M Dorsey is an award-winning journalist and a senior fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. He is also a senior research fellow at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute and co-director of the University of Wuerzburg’s Institute of Fan Culture in Germany.

The Battle for Jerusalem: Turkey’s Erdogan stakes his claim

Political tensions between Turkey and Saudi Arabia are spilling over into trade with Saudi business leaders calling for a boycott of Turkish goods. On this week's The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis talks about how this boycott could mean trouble for president Recep Tayyip Erdogan. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM, only on WION.

The West Asia Post: 'Boycott Turkey' campaign in Saudi Arabia

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's military aggression has put Turkey at odds with NATO. The latest conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has triggered a fresh fight. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Turkey has become the biggest liability for NATO.

Gravitas: Why is the NATO shy of expelling Turkey?

Turkey has ordered the arrest of 82 people in connection to a 6-year-old demonstration. Arrest warrants have been issued against opposition leaders, including a current Mayor. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is going after opposition leaders. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Erdogan trying to silence dissent?

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been in power for 17 years, he now wants to dominate the Islamic world. How far will he go? On Gravitas Plus Palki Sharma decodes Erdogan's Ottoman dream.

Gravitas Plus: Erdogan's quest for Islamic domination

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issues a threat to Greece over simmering tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. He said that Turkey is ready for every possibility & consequences. Turkey also accused Greece for shunning dialogue.

Turkey issues fresh threat to Greece, warning amid row over gas & oil resources

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issues a threat to Greece over simmering tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. He said that Turkey is ready for every possibility & consequences. Turkey will start five days of Military Exercises.

Turkey will start five days of Military Exercises

<p>Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off.</p>

<p>"Let threats go away so that the contacts can begin," the said as he met a visiting senior official of the Chinese Communist party, as quoted by news agency AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-crisis-greece-turkey-agree-de-escalation-talks-says-nato-325103">Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO</a></strong></p>

<p>The comments came as Athens denied any talks with Ankara brokered by NATO to resolve the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said both the countries have "agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean". &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security."</p>

<p>However, Greece later denied any such talks, saying they "do not correspond to reality".</p>

<p>"Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>"De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf."</p>


Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday asked Turkey to do away with "threats" against his country if talks on de-escalating tension in the eastern Mediterranean are to kick off. "Let threats go away so that the contacts can begin," the said as he met a visiting senior official of the Chinese Communist party, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO The comments came as Athens denied any talks with Ankara brokered by NATO to resolve the issue. On Thursday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said both the countries have "agreed to enter into technical talks at NATO to establish mechanisms for military de-confliction to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the eastern Mediterranean". "Greece and Turkey are valued allies, and NATO is an important platform for consultations on all issues that affect our shared security." However, Greece later denied any such talks, saying they "do not correspond to reality". "Published information claiming Greece and Turkey have agreed to hold so-called 'technical talks' on de-escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean do not correspond to reality," Greece's foreign ministry said. "De-escalation will only take place with the immediate withdrawal of all Turkish vessels from the Greek continental shelf."

Turkey should stop 'threats' against Greece for talks to begin: PM Mitsotakis

<p>Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan wants to increase his influence over Muslim countries to become its leader.</p>

<p>To fulfil his ambition, he is folllowing the footsteps of China by adapting its technique of expansionism.</p>

<p>Like China, Erdogan&nbsp;is supporting countries such as Pakistan which propagate terrorism. He is converting churches into mosques to appease Muslims living all over the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-hagia-sophia-turkeys-historic-chora-church-to-be-converted-into-mosque-322191">After Hagia Sophia, Turkey's historic Chora church to be converted into mosque</a></strong></p>

<p>Turkey is provoking its neighbours by claiming disputed terroritories. And it is due to him that Europe is looking at a military conflict.</p>

<p>NATO allies Turkey and Greece are facing off in one of their fiercest rows in months over a wealth of energy deposits in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.</p>

<p>It is far from the first time tensions have flared between the two uneasy neighbours. While Athens is ready for&nbsp;"significant de-escalation", Erdogan is not halting his&nbsp;"provocative actions".</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-erdogan-is-following-chinas-playbook-of-expansionism-323297/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Both the countries vehemently disagree over claims to hydrocarbon resources in the area based on conflicting views on the extent of their continental shelves in waters dotted with mostly Greek islands.</p>

<p>"If there is anyone who wants to pay its price, they are welcome to confront us. If not then they should go away so we can handle our own business," Erdogan said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Turkey and Greece have several unresolved issues ranging from terrority to gas reserves which seems to be proving the last working straw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it was Erogan who triggered the situation by fishing in troubled waters and announced Turkey's exploration in eastern&nbsp;Mediterranean region which is a contested terroritory. His unilateral decison has put his country on a collosive course with Greece in particular and Europe in general.</p>

<p>The discovery of major gas deposits in waters surrounding Crete and Cyprus has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old rivalries between the two countries.</p>

<p>According to an American survey conducted by Levant basin in 2010, the disputed region has 1.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil and 3.5 trillion cubic meters of recoverable gas. These reserves are enough to feed the world for 19 days.</p>

<p>These territories were spilt in 1923, the Treaty of Lausanne was signed. However, the&nbsp;peace treaty had ended World War I.</p>

<p>It recognized the boundaries of the modern state of Turkey. Now, Erdogan is no longer willing to accept its terms.</p>

<p>He claims that Turkey was disadvantaged by how the borders were drawn. So, he&nbsp;launched an explosive fight for a greater share of the Mediterranean.</p>

<p>EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves.</p>

<p>Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning&nbsp;Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.</p>

<p>Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks.</p>

<p>After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, "no one wants to solve this issue in a militaristic way," Maas said through a translator, "and there is a willingness on both sides for dialogue."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan wants to increase his influence over Muslim countries to become its leader. To fulfil his ambition, he is folllowing the footsteps of China by adapting its technique of expansionism.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan wants to increase his influence over Muslim countries to become its leader. To fulfil his ambition, he is folllowing the footsteps of China by adapting its technique of expansionism. Like China, Erdogan is supporting countries such as Pakistan which propagate terrorism. He is converting churches into mosques to appease Muslims living all over the world. Also see: After Hagia Sophia, Turkey's historic Chora church to be converted into mosque Turkey is provoking its neighbours by claiming disputed terroritories. And it is due to him that Europe is looking at a military conflict. NATO allies Turkey and Greece are facing off in one of their fiercest rows in months over a wealth of energy deposits in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is far from the first time tensions have flared between the two uneasy neighbours. While Athens is ready for "significant de-escalation", Erdogan is not halting his "provocative actions". Both the countries vehemently disagree over claims to hydrocarbon resources in the area based on conflicting views on the extent of their continental shelves in waters dotted with mostly Greek islands. "If there is anyone who wants to pay its price, they are welcome to confront us. If not then they should go away so we can handle our own business," Erdogan said on Wednesday. Turkey and Greece have several unresolved issues ranging from terrority to gas reserves which seems to be proving the last working straw. However, it was Erogan who triggered the situation by fishing in troubled waters and announced Turkey's exploration in eastern Mediterranean region which is a contested terroritory. His unilateral decison has put his country on a collosive course with Greece in particular and Europe in general. The discovery of major gas deposits in waters surrounding Crete and Cyprus has triggered a scramble for energy riches and revived old rivalries between the two countries. According to an American survey conducted by Levant basin in 2010, the disputed region has 1.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil and 3.5 trillion cubic meters of recoverable gas. These reserves are enough to feed the world for 19 days. These territories were spilt in 1923, the Treaty of Lausanne was signed. However, the peace treaty had ended World War I. It recognized the boundaries of the modern state of Turkey. Now, Erdogan is no longer willing to accept its terms. He claims that Turkey was disadvantaged by how the borders were drawn. So, he launched an explosive fight for a greater share of the Mediterranean. EU powerhouse Germany is spearheading efforts to avoid an outright military conflict that could imperil Europe's future access to newly-discovered energy reserves. Greece's maritime claims are backed by the entire European Union, but the bloc has so far held back from heavily sanctioning Turkey, fearing possible retaliation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Maas shuttled between Athens and Ankara on Tuesday in a bid to get the sides to temper the rhetoric and re-enter direct talks. After both visits were over, Maas conceded that the dispute had entered a "very critical" phase. Nevertheless, "no one wants to solve this issue in a militaristic way," Maas said through a translator, "and there is a willingness on both sides for dialogue."

How Turkish President Erdogan is following China's playbook of expansionism

Greece has put its armed forces on alert after Turkey sent a survey ship to a disputed area of the Mediterranean sea. Watch report.

Greece-Turkey tensions: 'Turkish provocation won't go unanswered', says Greece

Women in various cities of Turkey have been pouring on the streets against gender-based violence. They feel that the ruling party will pour out an international court designed to protect women. The agreement is known as the "Instanbul Convention" is a legally binding state of guidelines. Watch report.

Fineprint: Erdogan's kin split over treaty, Treaty protects women from violence

Turkey's parliament has passed a bill that allows the Erdogan government to reduce internet bandwidth and cut access to Twitter Facebook, and Youtube, if they do not abide by censorship orders.

Gravitas: Erdogan pushes law to censor social media in Turkey

Turkey’s parliament approved a law early on July 29 that gives authorities greater power to regulate social media despite concerns of growing censorship. Watch report.

Govt to regulate social media in Turkey: Fears on curbs on freedom of speech

Turkey's prominent art figure and activist Osman Kavala story are no less than a nightmare. Kavala has been imprisoned in Turkey for almost 3 years without ever been convicted of a crime. Watch report.

Osman Kavala seen as a threat by Erdogan

<p>After 86 years an all-faiths museum once again echoed to the sound of Islamic prayers in Turkey. For Turkish Islamists, the&nbsp;re-conversion is a landmark moment as it was a long-awaited restoration of the symbol of Ottoman might.</p>

<p>However, for many others in Turkey and around the world, it&nbsp;is a setback to one of the world's greatest cultural landmarks.</p>

<p>The Hagia Sophia has nothing to do with religion, or Jesus Christ or Prophet Muhammad. It is revered by Christians and Muslims alike, but is not sacred to either of them.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-friday-prayers-held-at-hagia-sophia-315819/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The structure was constructed by one sovereign as a church and was then converted into a mosque by another sovereign. The process went on for centuries as there were crusades and wars.</p>

<p>While it is a symbol of religious pride and of the conquest mentality, there is nothing particularly sacred about this monument's heritage.</p>

<p>In a picture posted on Instagram of TRT World of the cathedral of Cordoba, the caption read, "Over the centuries, hundreds of mosques across Europe have been turned into churches as part of an attempt to erase the Muslim identity."</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDAyfCMKU-g/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Over the centuries, hundreds of mosques across Europe have been turned into churches. As a part of an attempt to erase the Muslim identity, several components such as domes and arches reflecting Islamic or Turkish architecture were purposely destroyed or altered, says architect Mehmet Emin Yilmaz. Yilmaz, who explored the Turkish architectural works in the lands dominated by the Ottoman Empire by travelling country by country, determined that 329 Turkish architectural works such as mosques, lodges and tombs were converted into churches across 18 countries. Swipe for some of the mosques that have been converted into churches around Europe. Photos: @mimaremin and Getty ∙ #Conversion #Architecture #GreatMosqueofCordoba #MezquitaCatedral #Europe #Greece #Bulgaria #Mosque #Church</a></p>

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<p>The cathedral, popularly known as&nbsp;the cathedral of our lady of the assumption, is located in Cordoba, Spain. It was previously&nbsp;an Islamic place of worship, but was converted into a cathedral the 13th century.</p>

<p>The caption on the picture&nbsp;reads, "An attempt to erase Muslim identity".&nbsp;This media network is using a 13th century conquest to justify Erdogan's current decision. The post used one wrong to justify another and is&nbsp;trying to blur the lines between ancient empires and modern-day republics.</p>

<p>Although, it&nbsp;expected from the TRT World as the media house is considered to be Erdogan's propaganda arm.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-turks-mark-hagia-sophias-first-friday-prayers-post-reconversion-315781"><strong>Have a look:&nbsp;How Turkey marked Hagia Sophia's first Friday prayers post reconversion</strong></a></p>

<p>However, what TRT World does not highlight is Erdogan's&nbsp;authoritarianism.</p>

<p>Not once did Erdogan consult any of the stakeholders in the Turkish parliament before taking this decision and&nbsp;did not allow any deliberation on his decision.</p>

<p>In&nbsp;doing so, he has reversed the very secular and democratic credentials of Turkey. His&nbsp;country anyway does not have an impressive record of tolerance for Christians, and&nbsp;most of them have escaped to Europe. Only about a hundred thousand Christians are said to be living in the Turkey,&nbsp;as of today.</p>

<p>This decision carries the danger of causing more frictions between the Christian and Islamic communities as critics believe that&nbsp;Erdogan is using the Hagia Sophia as a tool to legitimise his ambitions.</p>


After 86 years an all-faiths museum once again echoed to the sound of Islamic prayers in Turkey. For Turkish Islamists, the re-conversion is a landmark moment as it was a long-awaited restoration of the symbol of Ottoman might.

After 86 years an all-faiths museum once again echoed to the sound of Islamic prayers in Turkey. For Turkish Islamists, the re-conversion is a landmark moment as it was a long-awaited restoration of the symbol of Ottoman might. However, for many others in Turkey and around the world, it is a setback to one of the world's greatest cultural landmarks. The Hagia Sophia has nothing to do with religion, or Jesus Christ or Prophet Muhammad. It is revered by Christians and Muslims alike, but is not sacred to either of them. The structure was constructed by one sovereign as a church and was then converted into a mosque by another sovereign. The process went on for centuries as there were crusades and wars. While it is a symbol of religious pride and of the conquest mentality, there is nothing particularly sacred about this monument's heritage. In a picture posted on Instagram of TRT World of the cathedral of Cordoba, the caption read, "Over the centuries, hundreds of mosques across Europe have been turned into churches as part of an attempt to erase the Muslim identity." View this post on Instagram Over the centuries, hundreds of mosques across Europe have been turned into churches. As a part of an attempt to erase the Muslim identity, several components such as domes and arches reflecting Islamic or Turkish architecture were purposely destroyed or altered, says architect Mehmet Emin Yilmaz. Yilmaz, who explored the Turkish architectural works in the lands dominated by the Ottoman Empire by travelling country by country, determined that 329 Turkish architectural works such as mosques, lodges and tombs were converted into churches across 18 countries. Swipe for some of the mosques that have been converted into churches around Europe. Photos: @mimaremin and Getty ∙ #Conversion #Architecture #GreatMosqueofCordoba #MezquitaCatedral #Europe #Greece #Bulgaria #Mosque #Church A post shared by TRT World (@trtworld) on Jul 23, 2020 at 10:00pm PDT × The cathedral, popularly known as the cathedral of our lady of the assumption, is located in Cordoba, Spain. It was previously an Islamic place of worship, but was converted into a cathedral the 13th century. The caption on the picture reads, "An attempt to erase Muslim identity". This media network is using a 13th century conquest to justify Erdogan's current decision. The post used one wrong to justify another and is trying to blur the lines between ancient empires and modern-day republics. Although, it expected from the TRT World as the media house is considered to be Erdogan's propaganda arm. Have a look: How Turkey marked Hagia Sophia's first Friday prayers post reconversion However, what TRT World does not highlight is Erdogan's authoritarianism. Not once did Erdogan consult any of the stakeholders in the Turkish parliament before taking this decision and did not allow any deliberation on his decision. In doing so, he has reversed the very secular and democratic credentials of Turkey. His country anyway does not have an impressive record of tolerance for Christians, and most of them have escaped to Europe. Only about a hundred thousand Christians are said to be living in the Turkey, as of today. This decision carries the danger of causing more frictions between the Christian and Islamic communities as critics believe that Erdogan is using the Hagia Sophia as a tool to legitimise his ambitions.

Is Hagia Sophia a new tool for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan?

How Turkey marked Hagia Sophia's first Friday prayers post reconversion