The Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Jan 23) gave its long-awaited approval to Sweden's NATO membership, pushing the Nordic country significantly closer to the Western military alliance. Hungary is the only other NATO country left to ratify the Swedish membership bid. 
 
Three months after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted a bill which approved Sweden's membership to parliament, the country's MPs voted in favour of ratification late on Tuesday night.

After a four-hour-long debate, 287 lawmakers voted in favour of Sweden's NATO membership, while 55 voted against it. Sweden is now likely to become the 32nd member of the alliance. The Turkish president is likely to sign the ratification document of Sweden and conclude the role of Ankara in the protracted saga in the days ahead.

Taking to social media after the voting, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said, "Today we are one step closer to becoming a full member of NATO Positive that the Grand General Assembly of Turkey has voted in favour of Sweden’s Nato accession.”

Sweden’s Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the vote was “of course good”, but added that the government is now waiting for Erdogan to sign the ratification and send it on. “Of course, we are not finished with the process until it has happened, on the Turkish side,” he said while speaking to Swedish broadcaster SVT.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/turkeys-first-astronaut-launched-on-flight-to-international-space-station-681841">Turkey’s first astronaut launched on flight to International Space Station</a>

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the approval of Turkey and appealed to Hungary to do the same, appealing Budapest to "complete its national ratification as soon as possible". He added, “Sweden’s membership makes NATO stronger and us all safer.”

The United States further appreciated the approval granted by the Turkish parliament, with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stating on social media that the addition of Sweden to NATO is set to make the alliance "safer and stronger".

<h2>Hungary PM says 'reaffirmed' support to Sweden membership</h2>

Hungary Prime Minister Victor Orban said on Wednesday that he 'reaffirmed' his country's support to Sweden's NATO membership in a phone call with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg.

"I reaffirmed that the Hungarian government supports the NATO membership of Sweden," Orban wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"I also stressed that we will continue to urge the Hungarian National Assembly to vote in favour of Sweden's accession and conclude the ratification at the first possible opportunity," he added.

Hungary is the last holdout to Sweden's bid to join NATO. Verbal reaffirmation of support may not necessarily indicate that hightly technical, formal process of official ratification will move forward swiftly.

Watch:&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Turkey

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Sweden applied to join NATO membership in May 2022, marking a major shift in its security policy after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. Finland had also applied for NATO membership around the same time.&nbsp;

Congratulating Sweden, Finland's outgoing president Sauli Niinisto wrote on X, “I am very glad of the Turkish parliament’s vote to ratify Sweden’s Nato membership. Sweden’s membership will improve security in the Baltic region and make the whole alliance stronger. When Sweden is a member, Finland’s membership will also be completed.”

Hungary’s government had submitted the application for ratifying Sweden's membership in parliament in 2022, however, a final vote has been delayed repeatedly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Jan 23) gave its long-awaited approval to Sweden's NATO membership, pushing the Nordic country significantly closer to the Western military alliance.

The Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Jan 23) gave its long-awaited approval to Sweden's NATO membership, pushing the Nordic country significantly closer to the Western military alliance. Hungary is the only other NATO country left to ratify the Swedish membership bid. Three months after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted a bill which approved Sweden's membership to parliament, the country's MPs voted in favour of ratification late on Tuesday night. After a four-hour-long debate, 287 lawmakers voted in favour of Sweden's NATO membership, while 55 voted against it. Sweden is now likely to become the 32nd member of the alliance. The Turkish president is likely to sign the ratification document of Sweden and conclude the role of Ankara in the protracted saga in the days ahead. Taking to social media after the voting, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said, "Today we are one step closer to becoming a full member of NATO Positive that the Grand General Assembly of Turkey has voted in favour of Sweden’s Nato accession.” Sweden’s Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that the vote was “of course good”, but added that the government is now waiting for Erdogan to sign the ratification and send it on. “Of course, we are not finished with the process until it has happened, on the Turkish side,” he said while speaking to Swedish broadcaster SVT. Also read: Turkey’s first astronaut launched on flight to International Space Station NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the approval of Turkey and appealed to Hungary to do the same, appealing Budapest to "complete its national ratification as soon as possible". He added, “Sweden’s membership makes NATO stronger and us all safer.” The United States further appreciated the approval granted by the Turkish parliament, with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stating on social media that the addition of Sweden to NATO is set to make the alliance "safer and stronger". Hungary PM says 'reaffirmed' support to Sweden membership Hungary Prime Minister Victor Orban said on Wednesday that he 'reaffirmed' his country's support to Sweden's NATO membership in a phone call with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg. "I reaffirmed that the Hungarian government supports the NATO membership of Sweden," Orban wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "I also stressed that we will continue to urge the Hungarian National Assembly to vote in favour of Sweden's accession and conclude the ratification at the first possible opportunity," he added. Hungary is the last holdout to Sweden's bid to join NATO. Verbal reaffirmation of support may not necessarily indicate that hightly technical, formal process of official ratification will move forward swiftly. Watch: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Turkey Sweden applied to join NATO membership in May 2022, marking a major shift in its security policy after Russia invaded Ukraine in February. Finland had also applied for NATO membership around the same time. Congratulating Sweden, Finland's outgoing president Sauli Niinisto wrote on X, “I am very glad of the Turkish parliament’s vote to ratify Sweden’s Nato membership. Sweden’s membership will improve security in the Baltic region and make the whole alliance stronger. When Sweden is a member, Finland’s membership will also be completed.” Hungary’s government had submitted the application for ratifying Sweden's membership in parliament in 2022, however, a final vote has been delayed repeatedly. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey ratifies Sweden's much-delayed NATO bid, ball now in Hungary's court

Turkey's parliament has approved Sweden's NATO membership bid after more than four hours of debates. Turkish lawmakers ratified Sweden's accession protocol by 287 votes to 55 votes now this ends the 20 month long delay that had frustrated Turkey's Western allies.

Sweden finally approves overcomes NATO roadblock with the help of Turkey

Turkish authorities have detained 33 people suspected of spying on behalf of Israel and relations between Turkey and Israel have worsened after the outbreak of war in Gaza.

Turkey detains 'Mossad agents', suspects accused of spying for Israel

West Asia Post| The long-standing conflict between Turkiye and Kurdish fighters has once again made headlines, after fresh attacks by the Turkish regime targeted militant establishments in northern Syria.

Turkish military targets Kurdish bases

Turkey's first astronaut Alper Gezeravci and three other astronauts representing Europe were launched on a flight to the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday (Jan 18).

Turkey's first astronaut Alper Gezeravci and three other astronauts representing Europe were launched on a flight to the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday (Jan 18). According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Friday, a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule carrying the Axiom quartet lifted off atop a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Crew Dragon was expected to reach the International Space Station (ISS) early on Saturday morning and dock with the outpost orbiting some 400 kilometres above Earth and currently occupied by seven regular crew members. Responding to congratulations from mission control, flight commander Michael López-Alegría radioed back from the Crew Dragon, "As I was saying, it's a team sport. Thank you, guys." Also read: Astrobotic's Peregrine lander burns up after failing Moon mission This mission, called Ax-3, was arranged by Texas-based startup Axiom Space. It was the third such flight organised by Axiom over the past two years as the company builds on its business of putting astronauts sponsored by foreign governments and private enterprises into Earth's orbit. Who is Alper Gezeravci? Gezeravci, 44, is a Turkish Air Force veteran and holds the rank of a colonel. Turkey was poised to enter the exclusive but expanding club of ISS-guest countries by sending Gezeravci on his nation's debut human spaceflight as an Ax-3 mission specialist. His three other colleagues aboard the flight are Italian Air Force Colonel Walter Villadei, 49, Ax-3's designated pilot; Swedish aviator Marcus Wandt, 43, another mission specialist; and López-Alegría, 65, a retired NASA astronaut and dual citizen of Spain and the United States. Photo: Walter Villadei of Italy, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravci of Turkey, and ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Marcus Wandt of Sweden in Cape Canaveral The crew will conduct over 30 scientific experiments, many of them focused on the effects of spaceflight on human health and disease, Reuters reported. If all goes smoothly, the four astronauts will be welcomed aboard ISS on Saturday by the seven members of the station's current regular crew - two Americans from NASA, one astronaut each from Japan and Denmark, and three Russian cosmonauts. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey’s first astronaut launched on flight to International Space Station

Turkey carried out another slew of airstrikes against Kurdish sites in northern Syria in response for the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers. The sites struck included military bases, arms depots and logistical warehouses.

Turkish air strikes hit 23 Kurdish militant targets Syria

Turkey targets Kurdish establishments in Northern Syria

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised."

On Friday (Jan 12), at least nine Turkish soldiers were killed in clashes with the PKK in northern Iraq which further prompted Ankara to conduct air strikes and operations in Iraq as well as northern Syria.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya took to his official social media handle and in a posting said that the police had detained 18 people for "praising a terrorist organisation", "spreading terrorism propaganda," and "spreading misleading information" over Turkey's operations in Iraq.

Yerlikaya added that arrest warrants were issued for 19 others in Turkey as well as 133 living abroad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-it-shot-down-anti-ship-cruise-missile-from-houthi-area-of-yemen-targeting-uss-laboon-679991">US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen</a>

<h2>Turkey launches attacks against Kurdish 'terrorist targets' in Iraq, Syria</h2>

Turkey carried out another series of its air operations in northern Iraq and Syria in retaliation to the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 14).

"In accordance with our right to self-defence... air operations were carried out against terrorist targets in northern Iraq in the regions of Metina, Hakurk, Gara, Qandil and Asos, and in northern Syria," the Turkish defence ministry said in a statement.

WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria

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&nbsp;

The Turkish military claimed to have hit 24 targets, "including caves, shelters, ammunition and equipment depots, housing and gas factories" used by Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters.

Earlier on Sunday (Jan 14), the official Turkish news agency Anadolu reported that a total of 23 targets, comprising bases and arms depots, were destroyed in northern Syria.

Turkey on Saturday announced that it had struck 54 "targets" in Syria and Iraq that were affiliated with the PKK and the People's Protection Units (YPG).

A Turkish security source said that the National Intelligence Agency (MIT) had "neutralised" Hulya Mercen, a high-ranking PKK member who had previously carried out several attacks on Turkish troops in the Metina region in northern Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised.

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised." On Friday (Jan 12), at least nine Turkish soldiers were killed in clashes with the PKK in northern Iraq which further prompted Ankara to conduct air strikes and operations in Iraq as well as northern Syria. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya took to his official social media handle and in a posting said that the police had detained 18 people for "praising a terrorist organisation", "spreading terrorism propaganda," and "spreading misleading information" over Turkey's operations in Iraq. Yerlikaya added that arrest warrants were issued for 19 others in Turkey as well as 133 living abroad. Also read: US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen Turkey launches attacks against Kurdish 'terrorist targets' in Iraq, Syria Turkey carried out another series of its air operations in northern Iraq and Syria in retaliation to the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 14). "In accordance with our right to self-defence... air operations were carried out against terrorist targets in northern Iraq in the regions of Metina, Hakurk, Gara, Qandil and Asos, and in northern Syria," the Turkish defence ministry said in a statement. WATCH | Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria × The Turkish military claimed to have hit 24 targets, "including caves, shelters, ammunition and equipment depots, housing and gas factories" used by Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters. Earlier on Sunday (Jan 14), the official Turkish news agency Anadolu reported that a total of 23 targets, comprising bases and arms depots, were destroyed in northern Syria. Turkey on Saturday announced that it had struck 54 "targets" in Syria and Iraq that were affiliated with the PKK and the People's Protection Units (YPG). A Turkish security source said that the National Intelligence Agency (MIT) had "neutralised" Hulya Mercen, a high-ranking PKK member who had previously carried out several attacks on Turkish troops in the Metina region in northern Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey detains 18 people for ‘praising terrorist organisation’ after killing of soldiers in Iraq

Turkey carried out airstrikes targeting Kurdish militants in neighbouring Iraq and Syria on Saturday. This comes a day after an attack on a Turkish military base in Iraq killed nine Turkish soldiers.

Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Meanwhile, Turkey has said that it will provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Canada does not accept…’</h2>

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (Jan 12) said that he&nbsp;does not accept South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which accuses Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

When asked by reporters during a recent press conference, the Canadian PM said that Ottawa is a strong backer of the United Nation’s top court but “that does not mean that we support the premise of the case brought forward by South Africa.”

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel Genocide Trial: Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests break outside ICJ building

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Notably, Trudeau has come under criticism as he initially backed Israel’s right to defend itself but later changed his tune amid the mounting death toll in Gaza.&nbsp;

“He sends out some of his MPs (Members of Parliament) to claim that they support calling Israel genocidal when they’re talking to one group of voters. And then he sends out another group to say that they’re against calling Israel genocidal,” said Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Completely unjustified and wrong’</h2>

A spokesperson for the UK PM Rishi Sunak said that Sunak believed South Africa’s case against Israel was “completely unjustified and wrong.” He added, “The UK government stands by Israel’s clear right to defend itself within the framework of international law.”&nbsp;

<h2>Germany to intervene in ICJ case?</h2>

In what can be seen as the strongest show of support for Israel, aside from the United States the German government, on Friday (Jan 12), said that it is planning to intervene in the ongoing genocide case at the World Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-rebuffs-genocide-charges-calls-south-africas-allegations-baseless-679474">Israel rebuffs genocide charges by South Africa, calls allegations 'baseless'</a>

“German government firmly and explicitly rejects the accusation of genocide that has now been made against Israel before the International Court of Justice. This accusation has no basis whatsoever,” said spokesman Steffen Hebestreit in a statement.&nbsp;

Berlin would be able to intervene in the proceedings at The Hague in line with an article which allows states to seek clarification on the use of a multilateral convention. Hebestreit said Israel was “defending itself” after the “inhuman” attacks by Hamas on October 7.&nbsp;

“In view of Germany’s history, crimes against humanity, and Shoah the government is particularly committed to the UN Genocide Convention,” Hebestreit said.

He added, “The German government supports the International Court of Justice in its work, as it has done for many decades. The government intends to intervene as a third party in the main hearing.”&nbsp;

<h2>South Africa’s claims are ‘unfounded’</h2>

US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, on Thursday (Jan 11) after South Africa’s representatives had presented their case said, “That is not a characterisation that I would make from up here about our South African partners.”&nbsp;

He added, “The allegation that Israel is committing genocide is unfounded.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-reacts-to-genocide-accusations-calls-south-africa-legal-arm-of-hamas-679055">&nbsp;Israel reacts to genocide accusations at UN court hearing, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas</a>

Similarly, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby also called the genocide allegations “unfounded,” saying that it is not a word “that ought to be thrown around lightly, and we certainly don’t believe that it applies here.”&nbsp;

<h2>Turkey to provide documents</h2>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Friday told reporters in Istanbul that Turkey would continue to provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. “I believe Israel will be convicted there. We believe in the justice of the International Court of Justice,” said Erdogan.&nbsp;

<h2>South Africa’s case</h2>

South Africa launched an emergency case at the ICJ accusing Israel of violating the UN Genocide Convention which was signed in 1948 in the wake of the Holocaust.&nbsp;

Pretoria seeks a judgement where Israel is ordered to “immediately” halt its ongoing counteroffensive in Gaza. Israel has dismissed the case as “atrocious” and “preposterous” and even called South Africa a “legal arm” of Hamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Meanwhile, Turkey has said that it will provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. ‘Canada does not accept…’ Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (Jan 12) said that he does not accept South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which accuses Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. When asked by reporters during a recent press conference, the Canadian PM said that Ottawa is a strong backer of the United Nation’s top court but “that does not mean that we support the premise of the case brought forward by South Africa.” ALSO WATCH | Israel Genocide Trial: Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests break outside ICJ building Notably, Trudeau has come under criticism as he initially backed Israel’s right to defend itself but later changed his tune amid the mounting death toll in Gaza. “He sends out some of his MPs (Members of Parliament) to claim that they support calling Israel genocidal when they’re talking to one group of voters. And then he sends out another group to say that they’re against calling Israel genocidal,” said Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. ‘Completely unjustified and wrong’ A spokesperson for the UK PM Rishi Sunak said that Sunak believed South Africa’s case against Israel was “completely unjustified and wrong.” He added, “The UK government stands by Israel’s clear right to defend itself within the framework of international law.” Germany to intervene in ICJ case? In what can be seen as the strongest show of support for Israel, aside from the United States the German government, on Friday (Jan 12), said that it is planning to intervene in the ongoing genocide case at the World Court. ALSO READ | Israel rebuffs genocide charges by South Africa, calls allegations 'baseless' “German government firmly and explicitly rejects the accusation of genocide that has now been made against Israel before the International Court of Justice. This accusation has no basis whatsoever,” said spokesman Steffen Hebestreit in a statement. Berlin would be able to intervene in the proceedings at The Hague in line with an article which allows states to seek clarification on the use of a multilateral convention. Hebestreit said Israel was “defending itself” after the “inhuman” attacks by Hamas on October 7. “In view of Germany’s history, crimes against humanity, and Shoah the government is particularly committed to the UN Genocide Convention,” Hebestreit said. He added, “The German government supports the International Court of Justice in its work, as it has done for many decades. The government intends to intervene as a third party in the main hearing.” South Africa’s claims are ‘unfounded’ US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, on Thursday (Jan 11) after South Africa’s representatives had presented their case said, “That is not a characterisation that I would make from up here about our South African partners.” He added, “The allegation that Israel is committing genocide is unfounded.” ALSO READ | Israel reacts to genocide accusations at UN court hearing, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas Similarly, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby also called the genocide allegations “unfounded,” saying that it is not a word “that ought to be thrown around lightly, and we certainly don’t believe that it applies here.” Turkey to provide documents Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Friday told reporters in Istanbul that Turkey would continue to provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. “I believe Israel will be convicted there. We believe in the justice of the International Court of Justice,” said Erdogan. South Africa’s case South Africa launched an emergency case at the ICJ accusing Israel of violating the UN Genocide Convention which was signed in 1948 in the wake of the Holocaust. Pretoria seeks a judgement where Israel is ordered to “immediately” halt its ongoing counteroffensive in Gaza. Israel has dismissed the case as “atrocious” and “preposterous” and even called South Africa a “legal arm” of Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel ‘genocide’ case: Western countries reject S. Africa’s charges; Turkey to provide documents

Turkey&nbsp;president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has come down heavily on US and UK for striking Houthis rebels in Yemen. In a strong-worded comment he said that the nations are seeking to transform the Red Sea into a 'sea of blood.'

This comes&nbsp;after&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;at a recently held rally in Istanbul lashed out at Israel for carrying out "state terrorism" and compared PM Benjamin Netanyahu to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler.

Responding to media personnel over the ongoing air strikes by US and UK in Yemen targeting Houthis, the Turkish president said, "All that has been done is a disproportionate use of force."

"At the moment, they are trying to turn the Red Sea into a sea of blood and Yemen, with the Houthis and by using all of its force, says it is and will give the necessary response in the region to the United States, Britain," he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-qatar-ink-pact-to-allow-delivering-medicines-to-hamas-held-hostages-679555">Israel, Qatar ink pact to allow delivering medicines to Hamas-held hostages</a>

Houthis have been attacking ships in the Red Sea region, which holds importance for global transport and trade due to its strategic location and key waterways.&nbsp;

Erdogan said that the Houthis in Yemen are putting up a "very successful defence, response" against the US and the UK attacks. Speaking over its own security amid the escalating situation, Erdogan said that it is in the works to see "how it can protect itself against all that is happening".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blinken-discusses-human-rights-with-chinese-official-urges-beijing-to-maintain-cross-strait-stability-679518">US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability</a>

Notably, US and EU consider&nbsp;Hamas as a terror group but Ankara does not.&nbsp;Turkey had expressed support for Yemeni government.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-elections-2024-taiwanese-head-to-ballot-booths-to-pick-a-new-president-679559">Taiwan Elections 2024: Taiwanese head to ballot booths to pick a new president</a>

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<h2>Other reactions&nbsp;</h2>

Commenting on the retaliatory strikes, a NATO spokesperson reportedly said that the “strikes were defensive and designed to preserve freedom of navigation in one of the world's most vital waterways.”

Meanwhile, Iran and Russia have&nbsp;condemned the strikes by US and British forces.&nbsp;While Iran called the strikes “an arbitrary move” that “clearly breached Yemen’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and was against international laws and regulations", Russia termed it&nbsp;“illegitimate" and an act for “trying to adjust the international law system to its actions.”

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Turkey president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has come down heavily on US and UK for striking Houthis rebels in Yemen. In a strong-worded comment he said that the nations are seeking to transform the Red Sea into a 'sea of blood.

Turkey president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has come down heavily on US and UK for striking Houthis rebels in Yemen. In a strong-worded comment he said that the nations are seeking to transform the Red Sea into a 'sea of blood.' This comes after Erdogan at a recently held rally in Istanbul lashed out at Israel for carrying out "state terrorism" and compared PM Benjamin Netanyahu to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. Responding to media personnel over the ongoing air strikes by US and UK in Yemen targeting Houthis, the Turkish president said, "All that has been done is a disproportionate use of force." "At the moment, they are trying to turn the Red Sea into a sea of blood and Yemen, with the Houthis and by using all of its force, says it is and will give the necessary response in the region to the United States, Britain," he added. Also Read | Israel, Qatar ink pact to allow delivering medicines to Hamas-held hostages Houthis have been attacking ships in the Red Sea region, which holds importance for global transport and trade due to its strategic location and key waterways. Erdogan said that the Houthis in Yemen are putting up a "very successful defence, response" against the US and the UK attacks. Speaking over its own security amid the escalating situation, Erdogan said that it is in the works to see "how it can protect itself against all that is happening". Also Read | US' Blinken discusses human rights with Chinese official, urges Beijing to maintain cross-strait stability Notably, US and EU consider Hamas as a terror group but Ankara does not. Turkey had expressed support for Yemeni government. Watch | Taiwan Elections 2024: Taiwanese head to ballot booths to pick a new president × Other reactions Commenting on the retaliatory strikes, a NATO spokesperson reportedly said that the “strikes were defensive and designed to preserve freedom of navigation in one of the world's most vital waterways.” Meanwhile, Iran and Russia have condemned the strikes by US and British forces. While Iran called the strikes “an arbitrary move” that “clearly breached Yemen’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and was against international laws and regulations", Russia termed it “illegitimate" and an act for “trying to adjust the international law system to its actions.” (With inputs from agencies)

Turning Red Sea into 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Turkey, his first stop in the week-long new West Asia trip. This is US' top diplomat's fourth crisis visit to the region amid escalating tensions.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Turkey

Turkiye has announced that it would not allow two Minehunter ships donated to Ukraine by britain to transit its waters en route the Black Sea. Turkiye says that it will violate an international pact concerning wartime passage of the straits.

Turkey to block UK's Minehunter Ships, says 'it will violate int'l pact concerning wartime passage'

Turkey has announced that it would not allow two Minehunter ships donated to Ukraine by Britain to transit its waters en route the Black Sea. Turkey says that it will violate an international pact concerning wartime passage of the straits.

Turkey to block UK minehunter ships intended for Ukraine

Turkey to block UK's minehunter ships from entering Black Sea

Turkey announced on Tuesday it had detained 33 people suspected of planning abductions and spying on behalf of Israel's Mossad intelligence service.

Turkey detains 33 suspects accused of spying for Israel

Turkey detains alleged Mossad spies accused of plotting attack, conduct raids in over 8 locations

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday.

Last month, Turkish officials warned Israel of "serious consequences" if it tried to hunt down members of the militant group Hamas living outside Palestinian territories, including in Turkey. President Tayyip Erdogan warned that would be a mistake.

Turkey, unlike most of its Western allies and some Arab nations, does not classify Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

Police raided 57 locations in eight provinces as part of an investigation - dubbed "Operation Mole" - launched by the Istanbul prosecutor's counter-terrorism bureau and the MIT intelligence agency, Yerlikaya said.

He said on social media platform X that the suspects were believed to be aiming to identify, monitor, assault and kidnap foreign nationals living in Turkey. The state-run Anadolu news agency said authorities were seeking 13 others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-israel-has-killed-groups-deputy-head-in-beirut-675960">Also read |&nbsp;War in Gaza: Hamas claims deputy head killed in 'treacherous Zionist strike'</a>

Asked about the arrests, Israeli Prime Minister's Office and the Foreign Ministry did not immediately comment.

Turkey has harshly criticised Israel for its bombardment of Gaza in its war with Hamas, with Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly&nbsp;exchanging barbs&nbsp;last week.

Yerlikaya said authorities had found large amounts of foreign currency, including around 150,000 euros ($165,105), an unregistered firearm, and digital materials during the raids.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israeli bid to clear out Gaza population?

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He shared footage of the operations showing police raiding homes, handcuffing suspects, and putting them in police vehicles. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday.

Turkish police detained 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence service and of targeting foreigners living in Turkey, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Tuesday. Last month, Turkish officials warned Israel of "serious consequences" if it tried to hunt down members of the militant group Hamas living outside Palestinian territories, including in Turkey. President Tayyip Erdogan warned that would be a mistake. Turkey, unlike most of its Western allies and some Arab nations, does not classify Hamas as a terrorist organisation. Police raided 57 locations in eight provinces as part of an investigation - dubbed "Operation Mole" - launched by the Istanbul prosecutor's counter-terrorism bureau and the MIT intelligence agency, Yerlikaya said. He said on social media platform X that the suspects were believed to be aiming to identify, monitor, assault and kidnap foreign nationals living in Turkey. The state-run Anadolu news agency said authorities were seeking 13 others. Also read | War in Gaza: Hamas claims deputy head killed in 'treacherous Zionist strike' Asked about the arrests, Israeli Prime Minister's Office and the Foreign Ministry did not immediately comment. Turkey has harshly criticised Israel for its bombardment of Gaza in its war with Hamas, with Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly exchanging barbs last week. Yerlikaya said authorities had found large amounts of foreign currency, including around 150,000 euros ($165,105), an unregistered firearm, and digital materials during the raids. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli bid to clear out Gaza population? He shared footage of the operations showing police raiding homes, handcuffing suspects, and putting them in police vehicles. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey claims to have rounded up 33 suspected spies for Israel’s Mossad

Turkiye detains 33 people suspected of spying for Israel. Turkish authorities continue to search for 13 others who are believed to have links to Israel's Mossad security service. Suspects detained in raids in Istanbul and seven other provinces.

Turkiye detains suspected Israeli spies accused of plotting attack

There is a new staple on Turkish dinner tables. The fruity bubbly is a hit this holiday season. Rahesha Sehgal tells you all about the trending spirit, its history and the Turkish liquor tradition.

New Turkish dinner table favourite

In Pics | Year Ender 2023: General, Presidential elections around the world

In a bid to alleviate the mounting pressure of soaring living costs, Turkey has announced a substantial 49 per cent increase in the minimum wage for the upcoming year. &nbsp;

According to Bloomberg, the monthly net minimum salary will now stand at 17,002 liras ($578), as declared by Labour Minister Vedat Isikhan during a televised press conference in the capital.

This move comes at a critical juncture, with inflation projected to exceed 70 per cent in the months ahead, making it a crucial factor in the country's economic landscape.&nbsp;

This decision, crucial for over a third of the nation's workforce earning the minimum wage, marks a deviation from the previous years' dual adjustments.

Labour Minister Isikhan emphasised the government's commitment to preventing the workforce from being adversely impacted by inflation. "We fulfilled our promise not to allow our workers to be crushed by inflation," the minister affirmed.&nbsp;

The spotlight is now on credit rating agencies and investors seeking insights into Turkey's economic trajectory. The decision to increase the minimum wage is seen as a significant indicator of the country's economic policies post the May elections and in the lead-up to the municipal ballot in March.

Analysts from Wall Street, including Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Morgan Stanley, have cautioned that a minimum wage adjustment exceeding 40-50 per cent could complicate the central bank's efforts to control inflation.&nbsp;

The challenge facing Turkey's economic leadership lies in striking a balance between addressing the cost-of-living crisis faced by the population and avoiding hindrance to the ongoing efforts to slash inflation by nearly half by the end of the next year.

Unlike previous years, where two wage adjustments were made, the government is planning a single hike for 2024.&nbsp;

Turkey's chronic inflation, reaching its highest point in almost a quarter of a century last year, has significantly eroded the purchasing power of its citizens. The decision to raise the minimum wages is a strategic move by the government to retain popular support. &nbsp;

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, known for advocating cheap money, has revamped the economic leadership team after his re-election in May. The renewed focus is on curbing domestic demand, with the central bank drastically increasing interest rates to counter inflation. &nbsp;

The central bank projects that inflation will end this year at 65 per cent, peak above 70 per cent in May, and subsequently conclude 2024 at 36 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Bloomberg)&nbsp;

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In a bid to alleviate the mounting pressure of soaring living costs, Turkey has announced a substantial 49 per cent increase in the minimum wage for the upcoming year.

In a bid to alleviate the mounting pressure of soaring living costs, Turkey has announced a substantial 49 per cent increase in the minimum wage for the upcoming year. According to Bloomberg, the monthly net minimum salary will now stand at 17,002 liras ($578), as declared by Labour Minister Vedat Isikhan during a televised press conference in the capital. This move comes at a critical juncture, with inflation projected to exceed 70 per cent in the months ahead, making it a crucial factor in the country's economic landscape. This decision, crucial for over a third of the nation's workforce earning the minimum wage, marks a deviation from the previous years' dual adjustments. Labour Minister Isikhan emphasised the government's commitment to preventing the workforce from being adversely impacted by inflation. "We fulfilled our promise not to allow our workers to be crushed by inflation," the minister affirmed. The spotlight is now on credit rating agencies and investors seeking insights into Turkey's economic trajectory. The decision to increase the minimum wage is seen as a significant indicator of the country's economic policies post the May elections and in the lead-up to the municipal ballot in March. Analysts from Wall Street, including Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Morgan Stanley, have cautioned that a minimum wage adjustment exceeding 40-50 per cent could complicate the central bank's efforts to control inflation. The challenge facing Turkey's economic leadership lies in striking a balance between addressing the cost-of-living crisis faced by the population and avoiding hindrance to the ongoing efforts to slash inflation by nearly half by the end of the next year. Unlike previous years, where two wage adjustments were made, the government is planning a single hike for 2024. Turkey's chronic inflation, reaching its highest point in almost a quarter of a century last year, has significantly eroded the purchasing power of its citizens. The decision to raise the minimum wages is a strategic move by the government to retain popular support. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, known for advocating cheap money, has revamped the economic leadership team after his re-election in May. The renewed focus is on curbing domestic demand, with the central bank drastically increasing interest rates to counter inflation. The central bank projects that inflation will end this year at 65 per cent, peak above 70 per cent in May, and subsequently conclude 2024 at 36 per cent. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey raises minimum wage by 49pc amid soaring inflation 

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO.

Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq

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All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO.

Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkey-luxury-cars-seized-from-criminal-gangs-turned-into-traffic-police-vehicles-673743">Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles</a>

Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee.

"The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-civilians-killed-after-turkish-strikes-on-syria-673699">At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria</a>

Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote.

<h2>The holdup</h2>

Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists.

After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July.

NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake"

(With inputs from agencies)

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays.

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO. Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq × All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO. Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application. Also Read | Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee. "The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. Also Read | At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote. The holdup Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists. After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July. NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake" (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish parliamentary committee greenlights Sweden’s NATO bid

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation".

TV news anchor sacked in Turkey for using Starbucks cup on broadcast

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that&nbsp;Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation".

In Turkey, there has been a nationwide boycott of the Seattle-based company by coffee enthusiasts in the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;The 45-year-old veteran newscaster Gunay, who was working with TGRT Haber, a nationwide TV channel in Turkey, faced the flak along with the director of the newscast.

The program director was also immediately sacked after the controversial broadcast. It was confirmed by the Turkish television.

In a statement, the Istanbul-based media company asserted&nbsp;its commitment to "understanding&nbsp;the sensitivities of the Turkish people regarding Gaza and defends them to the end.” “We do not approve of this action of the presenter and director, whose employment contracts were terminated, and we strongly condemn it," the statement added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/predator-vs-prey-alligator-chomps-down-invasive-python-in-florida-watch-epic-showdown-here-673905">Predator vs Prey: Alligator chomps down invasive python in Florida. Watch epic showdown here</a>

The TV channel, in its defence, said that the&nbsp;anchor and director were terminated&nbsp;for "just cause". In its clarification, the TV channel also clarified that they were found to have acted "contrary to this principle".

With anti-Israel sentiment gaining momentum in Turkey, many videos have gone viral where protesters were seen rallying outside Starbucks locations, demanding that customers boycott the coffee chain in the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mv-chem-pluto-drone-attack-initial-investigation-of-debris-hints-at-iran-link-report-673892">MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report</a>

<h2>'Butcher of Gaza'</h2>

Turkey, historically allied with Israel, has shifted its stance under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Erdogan has adopted a more adversarial approach towards the West Asian country. Erdogan is quite critical of the Israeli government and has lamented and labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza".

This comes as Erdogan&nbsp;denounced Israel as a "terror state" while also condemning the killing of Palestinians in the ongoing war with the Hamas militant group.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/top-netanyahu-confidant-ron-dermer-in-us-for-talks-after-concerns-on-arms-supply-delay-673906">Top Netanyahu confidant Ron Dermer in US for talks after concerns on arms supply delay</a>

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The row over Starbucks' alleged pro-Israeli stance has also faced criticism beyond the Muslim-majority country in the United States. However, CEO Laxman Narasimhan, while addressing the controversy, rubbished all the allegations and said that what is shown on social media platforms is not what the coffee giant stands for.

(With inputs from agencies)

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation".

An acclaimed Turkish TV news anchor, Meltem Gunay, was terminated from her job for featuring a Starbucks cup on her desk during a broadcast. Notably, in the Muslim-majority country, the American coffeehouse chain is believed to be pro-Israel, a claim that Starbucks has rubbished saying that the protesters are "influenced by misrepresentation". In Turkey, there has been a nationwide boycott of the Seattle-based company by coffee enthusiasts in the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war. The 45-year-old veteran newscaster Gunay, who was working with TGRT Haber, a nationwide TV channel in Turkey, faced the flak along with the director of the newscast. The program director was also immediately sacked after the controversial broadcast. It was confirmed by the Turkish television. In a statement, the Istanbul-based media company asserted its commitment to "understanding the sensitivities of the Turkish people regarding Gaza and defends them to the end.” “We do not approve of this action of the presenter and director, whose employment contracts were terminated, and we strongly condemn it," the statement added. Also Read | Predator vs Prey: Alligator chomps down invasive python in Florida. Watch epic showdown here The TV channel, in its defence, said that the anchor and director were terminated for "just cause". In its clarification, the TV channel also clarified that they were found to have acted "contrary to this principle". With anti-Israel sentiment gaining momentum in Turkey, many videos have gone viral where protesters were seen rallying outside Starbucks locations, demanding that customers boycott the coffee chain in the country. Also Read | MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report 'Butcher of Gaza' Turkey, historically allied with Israel, has shifted its stance under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Erdogan has adopted a more adversarial approach towards the West Asian country. Erdogan is quite critical of the Israeli government and has lamented and labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza". This comes as Erdogan denounced Israel as a "terror state" while also condemning the killing of Palestinians in the ongoing war with the Hamas militant group. Watch | Top Netanyahu confidant Ron Dermer in US for talks after concerns on arms supply delay × The row over Starbucks' alleged pro-Israeli stance has also faced criticism beyond the Muslim-majority country in the United States. However, CEO Laxman Narasimhan, while addressing the controversy, rubbished all the allegations and said that what is shown on social media platforms is not what the coffee giant stands for. (With inputs from agencies)

A visible Starbucks cup during news broadcast led to a Turkish TV anchor being sacked. Here's why

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission approved Sweden's NATO membership bid on Tuesday in a key step towards enlarging the Western bloc after 19 months of delays in which Ankara demanded security-related concessions from Stockholm.

After blocking Sweden's NATO bid, Turkey Parliament panel approves bid

The Turkish air force conducted air strikes in northern Iraq and Syria and destroyed 29 targets of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) after 12 soldiers were killed in the past two days in northern Iraq. Turkish strikes have killed 92 in Syria in 2023.

Turkey steps up war on Kurdish militants after 12 soldiers were killed

The Turkish air force conducted air strikes in northern Iraq and Syria, destroyed 29 targets of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) after 12 soldiers got killed in the past two days in Northern Iraq. In 2023,Turkiye has carried out 124 strikes in northern Syria. As Turkey airstrikes against Kurdish militants, Human Rights group says 11 civilians' were injured in the latest strikes.

Turkiye intensifies airstrikes in Syria & northern Iraq

The Turkish police is making the best use of resources it has confiscated from crime organisations. According to the country's interior ministry, as many as 23 luxury cars seized by Istanbul police have been converted to traffic police vehicles to maintain the law and order situation.

The Turkish police is making the best use of resources it has confiscated from crime organisations. According to the country's interior ministry, as many as 23 luxury cars seized by Istanbul police have been converted to traffic police vehicles to maintain the law and order situation. The vehicles were given to Istanbul police in line with a court order. The vehicles converted for police use include a Bentley, a Porsche and a Volvo that have been painted white and blue with 'traffic police' written on them. It is estimated the new police cars have a market value of more than $5 million. Drug trafficker Hakan Ayik arrested According to the Daily Telegraph, the exotic cars seized belong to one of the world’s alleged biggest drug traffickers and ex-Sydney bikie Hakan Ayik who was arrested alongside his 36 other aides in Istanbul last month, “We will not forgive organised criminal organisations..we will dismantle organised criminal organisations of any size and bring them to justice,” said Ali Yerlikaya, Turkey’s interior minister on X (formerly known as Twitter) after the arrest. Watch | WION Dispatch: Deadly riot engulfs in Mexico's Sinaloa, son of drug lord 'El Chapo' arrested × Yerlikaya added that Mick Hawki was the former alleged leader of the Comanchero bikie crime organisation, linked to Ayik, but was killed in 2018. The Comanchero Motorcycle Club is an outlaw motorcycle gang based in Australia and southeast Asia. “The criminal organisation continued its activities under the management of Mark Douglas Buddle. The so-called leader of the organisation...was captured in 2022 and handed over to Australian authorities.” Notably, Ayik had been running his drug criminal enterprise in Turkey after fleeing Australia in 2010 before the New South Wales (NSW) police could arrest him for his alleged involvement in a massive heroin shipment uncovered at Port Botany. Also read | Mexico’s dreaded Sinaloa cartel ‘puts up’ banners announcing to stop sale of fentanyl Ayik's fortune is estimated to be worth around $1 billion. He had been running his business rather openly with reports claiming that he was paying over $1 million a month as protection money to corrupt government and military officials. Ayik's criminal credentials could be established from the fact that in 2021, he was among 17 people across the globe to be charged in an FBI indictment in the US for violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (Rico) Act. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles

Turkish air strikes killed eight civilians in Syria's Kurdish-held northeast Monday, a war monitor and local media said, as Ankara launched operations in Iraq and Syria following deadly attacks on its soldiers.

On Saturday, Turkey announced a new wave of air strikes in retaliation for two separate attacks on its bases in northern Iraq that killed 12 soldiers, which Ankara blamed on Kurdish militants.

Eight civilians were killed in strikes on Monday, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, revising an earlier toll of six deaths.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60-people-killed-after-drone-attack-on-syria-military-academy-war-monitor-643007">Death toll after drone attack on Syria military academy rises to 112: War monitor</a>

The Britain-based monitor, which has a network of sources inside Syria, said five of the victims were employees of a printing works in the northern city of Qamishli, near the Turkish border.

Syrian Kurdish news agency ANHA also reported eight deaths.

The strikes hit more than 20 targets, primarily in the Qamishli area of the semi-autonomous Kurdish administration, the monitor and AFP correspondents in the region said.

Farhad Shani, spokesman for the US-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said on X, formerly Twitter, that the strikes destroyed "more than 25" civilian facilities and confirmed the death toll of eight civilians.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-conducts-air-strikes-in-iraq-syria-after-12-turkish-soldiers-were-killed-673133">Turkey conducts Air Strikes in Iraq, Syria after 12 Turkish soldiers were killed</a>

The SDF spearheaded the battle to dislodge Islamic State group fighters from their last scraps of territory in Syria&nbsp;in 2019.

On Saturday evening, an AFP correspondent as well as the Observatory reported strikes against oil sites near the Turkish border, without reporting any victims.

In October, Turkey intensified air strikes on Syria's northeast after an attack in Ankara that wounded two security personnel earlier that month.

A branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) -- listed as a terrorist group by Ankara and its Western allies -- claimed responsibility for the attack, the first bombing to hit the Turkish capital since 2016.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shoots-down-turkish-drone-in-syria-in-self-defence-643103">US shoots down Turkish drone in Syria in 'self defence'</a>

Turkey views the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) that dominate the SDF as an offshoot of the PKK.

Since 2016, Turkey has carried out successive ground operations to expel Kurdish forces from border areas of northern Syria. 
 
The conflict in Syria has killed more than half a million people since it began in 2011 with the authorities' brutal crackdown on anti-government protests, spiralling into a devastating war involving foreign armies and jihadists.

Turkish air strikes killed eight civilians in Syria's Kurdish-held northeast Monday, a war monitor and local media said, as Ankara launched operations in Iraq and Syria following deadly attacks on its soldiers.

Turkish air strikes killed eight civilians in Syria's Kurdish-held northeast Monday, a war monitor and local media said, as Ankara launched operations in Iraq and Syria following deadly attacks on its soldiers. On Saturday, Turkey announced a new wave of air strikes in retaliation for two separate attacks on its bases in northern Iraq that killed 12 soldiers, which Ankara blamed on Kurdish militants. Eight civilians were killed in strikes on Monday, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, revising an earlier toll of six deaths. ALSO READ | Death toll after drone attack on Syria military academy rises to 112: War monitor The Britain-based monitor, which has a network of sources inside Syria, said five of the victims were employees of a printing works in the northern city of Qamishli, near the Turkish border. Syrian Kurdish news agency ANHA also reported eight deaths. The strikes hit more than 20 targets, primarily in the Qamishli area of the semi-autonomous Kurdish administration, the monitor and AFP correspondents in the region said. Farhad Shani, spokesman for the US-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said on X, formerly Twitter, that the strikes destroyed "more than 25" civilian facilities and confirmed the death toll of eight civilians. ALSO WATCH | Turkey conducts Air Strikes in Iraq, Syria after 12 Turkish soldiers were killed The SDF spearheaded the battle to dislodge Islamic State group fighters from their last scraps of territory in Syria in 2019. On Saturday evening, an AFP correspondent as well as the Observatory reported strikes against oil sites near the Turkish border, without reporting any victims. In October, Turkey intensified air strikes on Syria's northeast after an attack in Ankara that wounded two security personnel earlier that month. A branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) -- listed as a terrorist group by Ankara and its Western allies -- claimed responsibility for the attack, the first bombing to hit the Turkish capital since 2016. ALSO READ | US shoots down Turkish drone in Syria in 'self defence' Turkey views the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) that dominate the SDF as an offshoot of the PKK. Since 2016, Turkey has carried out successive ground operations to expel Kurdish forces from border areas of northern Syria. The conflict in Syria has killed more than half a million people since it began in 2011 with the authorities' brutal crackdown on anti-government protests, spiralling into a devastating war involving foreign armies and jihadists.

At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria

Turkey has launched an intensive campaign of air strikes against Kurdish groups in Northern Iraq and Syria. The strikes are in response to the deaths of 12 Turkish soldiers in Iraq over the weekend. According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, the strike has killed at least 26 militants in air strikes. However, a local hospital official in Northern Syria says the strikes have killed at least six civilians.

Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq

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