Turkey is preparing for its general election, which might determine the political future of Erdogan, the country's de facto leader. As the election draws closer to the main event, Erdogan will face the greatest challenge of his 20-year reign because of a candidate who says his party has proof of Russian election meddling.

Turkey Elections 2023: Erdogan rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu claims evidence of Russian interference

Millions will head to the polls next week to vote in Turkey's presidential and parliamentary elections, which observers expect will provide the toughest test to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's 20-year stronghold.

Turkey Election 2023: Stiff challenge to Erdogan's reign

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close.

The Turkish president seemed to suggest that his opponents were behind the confrontations that erupted a day earlier when people threw stones at a key opposition figure in the eastern city of Erzurum. It is a stronghold of president's AK Party (AKP). The voting is slated to take place on May 14. According to opinion polls, Erdogan faces biggest challenge of his career in upcoming elections.

"They (the opposition) are trying to defame our cities shamelessly by making a scene with their own provocations," Erdogan said, without making direct reference to the events in Erzurum. Erdogan was speaking during a rally in the western town of Edirne.

"They are looking for a cover for their prospective defeat in the elections by provoking and insulting people," he added.

Erdogan's words are being seen as an attempt to shore up his appeal among conservative and nationalist voters.&nbsp;

Protesters threw stones at Ekrem Imamoglu, Mayor of Istanbul on Sunday. Imamoglu is a member of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). Imamoglu will be vice president if opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu wins presidential vote.

Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu appeared to take Erdogan's line and blamed the opposition for violence in Erzurum.

He claimed that Istanbul mayor's wife had provoked the crowds by making a 'V' sign at another rally last week. Soylu said that the gesture referred to Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which is outlawed in Turkey.

"People of Erzurum have high sensitivity on nationalism. If you go to these cities and provoke them over their sensitivities, then God forbid," Soylu said in a live broadcast late on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday (May 8) accused his political opponents of causing disorder and siding with the terrorists. He made the accusations in a fiery speech just days before an election that's poised to be close. The Turkish president seemed to suggest that his opponents were behind the confrontations that erupted a day earlier when people threw stones at a key opposition figure in the eastern city of Erzurum. It is a stronghold of president's AK Party (AKP). The voting is slated to take place on May 14. According to opinion polls, Erdogan faces biggest challenge of his career in upcoming elections. "They (the opposition) are trying to defame our cities shamelessly by making a scene with their own provocations," Erdogan said, without making direct reference to the events in Erzurum. Erdogan was speaking during a rally in the western town of Edirne. "They are looking for a cover for their prospective defeat in the elections by provoking and insulting people," he added. Erdogan's words are being seen as an attempt to shore up his appeal among conservative and nationalist voters. Protesters threw stones at Ekrem Imamoglu, Mayor of Istanbul on Sunday. Imamoglu is a member of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). Imamoglu will be vice president if opposition's Kemal Kilicdaroglu wins presidential vote. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu appeared to take Erdogan's line and blamed the opposition for violence in Erzurum. He claimed that Istanbul mayor's wife had provoked the crowds by making a 'V' sign at another rally last week. Soylu said that the gesture referred to Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which is outlawed in Turkey. "People of Erzurum have high sensitivity on nationalism. If you go to these cities and provoke them over their sensitivities, then God forbid," Soylu said in a live broadcast late on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Erdogan accuses opposition of violence, provocations days before election

In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured.

The accident, as per reports, happened late on Saturday when a truck crossed into the opposite lane after its driver lost control. It then collided with nine cars and two minibuses, reported state-run news agency Anadolu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kilicdaroglu-leaves-erdogans-shadow-in-turkeys-election-campaign-589965">Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign</a>

Several of these vehicles, as per the AP report, were parked alongside the road near a fuel station, with loved ones bidding farewell to men departing for Turkey's mandatory military duty.

As per a tweet by Turkey Health Minister Fahrettin Koca, 22 ambulances and three medical teams were dispatched to the scene of the accident in Topbogazali. He also said that after the crash on the Iskenderun-Antakya highway, fires broke out at the scene.

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Antakya’nın Topboğazlı mevkiinde yaşanan zincirleme trafik kazasında bir kamyonla otobüste yangın meydana gelmiş, 12 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiş, 3’ü ağır olmak üzere 31 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. 
 
Olay yerine 22 ambulans ve 3 UMKE Ekibi görevlendirilmiştir. 
 
Hayatını…
— Dr. Fahrettin Koca (@drfahrettinkoca) <a href="https://twitter.com/drfahrettinkoca/status/1654931731772743681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Witnesses, as per the Anadolu report, claimed that some of those killed had burned to death.&nbsp;Vehicles on fire can be seen in videos and pictures circulating on social media, depicting the chaotic scene after the crash.

Take a look:

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A truck crash in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Topbo%C4%9Faz%C4%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Topboğazı</a> has killed at least 12 people with 31 left injured. It’s being reported the driver lost control hitting 9 cars and 2 minibus’s. A lot of the victims were men leaving for mandatory military service in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hatay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hatay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/truckcrash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#truckcrash</a> <a href="https://t.co/wP6FiI0oAL">pic.twitter.com/wP6FiI0oAL</a>
— 𝙰𝚒 𝙽𝚎𝚠𝚜 𝚁𝚎𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝 (@AiNewsReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/AiNewsReport/status/1655128789419012097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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They show vehicles burning, as emergency teams attempt to keep people away from the blaze.

"May God have mercy on our citizens who lost their lives, I express my condolences to their relatives," tweeted Koca.&nbsp;

"We will do our best to ensure that the injured regain their health as soon as possible," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-heatwave-nation-reports-record-high-temperatures-of-43-degrees-589946">Vietnam heatwave: Nation reports record high temperatures of 43 degrees</a>

The truck, as per Demiroren, a private news agency, was carrying excavated earthquake rubble. It hit another truck before crossing the highway at around 7 pm&nbsp;local time (1600 GMT).

In February, Turkey was hit by a massive earthquake. Of the 11 affected Turkish provinces, Hatay was one of the worst hit by the February 6th earthquake.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured.

In Turkey's Hatay province, a multi-vehicle crash has killed at least 12 people while 31 others were injured. Three people as per news agency AP are grievously injured. The accident, as per reports, happened late on Saturday when a truck crossed into the opposite lane after its driver lost control. It then collided with nine cars and two minibuses, reported state-run news agency Anadolu. Also read | Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign Several of these vehicles, as per the AP report, were parked alongside the road near a fuel station, with loved ones bidding farewell to men departing for Turkey's mandatory military duty. As per a tweet by Turkey Health Minister Fahrettin Koca, 22 ambulances and three medical teams were dispatched to the scene of the accident in Topbogazali. He also said that after the crash on the Iskenderun-Antakya highway, fires broke out at the scene. Antakya’nın Topboğazlı mevkiinde yaşanan zincirleme trafik kazasında bir kamyonla otobüste yangın meydana gelmiş, 12 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiş, 3’ü ağır olmak üzere 31 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. Olay yerine 22 ambulans ve 3 UMKE Ekibi görevlendirilmiştir. Hayatını… — Dr. Fahrettin Koca (@drfahrettinkoca) May 6, 2023 × Witnesses, as per the Anadolu report, claimed that some of those killed had burned to death. Vehicles on fire can be seen in videos and pictures circulating on social media, depicting the chaotic scene after the crash. Take a look: A truck crash in #Topboğazı has killed at least 12 people with 31 left injured. It’s being reported the driver lost control hitting 9 cars and 2 minibus’s. A lot of the victims were men leaving for mandatory military service in #Hatay #Turkey #truckcrash pic.twitter.com/wP6FiI0oAL — 𝙰𝚒 𝙽𝚎𝚠𝚜 𝚁𝚎𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝 (@AiNewsReport) May 7, 2023 × They show vehicles burning, as emergency teams attempt to keep people away from the blaze. "May God have mercy on our citizens who lost their lives, I express my condolences to their relatives," tweeted Koca. "We will do our best to ensure that the injured regain their health as soon as possible," he added. Also read | Vietnam heatwave: Nation reports record high temperatures of 43 degrees The truck, as per Demiroren, a private news agency, was carrying excavated earthquake rubble. It hit another truck before crossing the highway at around 7 pm local time (1600 GMT). In February, Turkey was hit by a massive earthquake. Of the 11 affected Turkish provinces, Hatay was one of the worst hit by the February 6th earthquake. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

12 killed, 31 injured in multi-car crash in Turkey; victims burnt alive in resulting blaze

Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades.

The former civil servant was chosen by a coalition of six opposition parties to challenge Erdogan in the elections on May 14, which are seen to be among the most important in the nation's recent history.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a> 
 
After an inclusive campaign promising remedies to a cost-of-living issue that has eroded the president's popularity in recent years, opinion surveys often show Kilicdaroglu, 74, keeping an edge and perhaps winning in a second round vote.

He has promised a return to traditional economic policies, the parliamentary form of government, independence for the judiciary, which detractors claim Erdogan has abused to repress opposition, and improved ties with the West.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a> 
 
Even while the opposition's turnaround plan is anticipated to cause financial market instability and maybe the latest in a string of currency crises, it intends to reduce inflation, which reached 85% last year.

"I know people are struggling to get by. I know the cost of living and the hopelessness of young people," Kilicdaroglu told a rally last week. "The time has come for change. A new spirit and understanding is necessary."

Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?

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Detractors claim that Kilicdaroglu, who is despised by Erdogan amid his repeated electoral setbacks as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), does not have the ability to mobilise crowds and does not provide a clear vision for a time after Erdogan.

He wants to capitalise on the opposition's victory in municipal elections in 2019, when the CHP beat Erdogan's AK Party in Istanbul and other major cities with the help of supporters of other opposition parties.

Many people are unsure if Kilicdaroglu can defeat Erdogan, the president with the longest tenure in the country, whose charismatic campaigning has helped him win more than a dozen elections.

Analysts claim that Erdogan is more vulnerable to loss than ever, despite his heavy-handed control of the press, judiciary, and government spending on social aid before to the election.

The inflationary crisis that decimated household budgets was sparked by Erdogan's efforts to lower interest rates, the opposition has emphasised. According to the government, as part of a strategy promoting lira holdings, the policy boosted exports and investment.

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Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades.

Opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has spent his whole career in Tayyip Erdogan's shadow, thinks the time is now to lead Turkey in a new direction and undo much of the legacy of the man who has controlled politics for two decades. The former civil servant was chosen by a coalition of six opposition parties to challenge Erdogan in the elections on May 14, which are seen to be among the most important in the nation's recent history. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon After an inclusive campaign promising remedies to a cost-of-living issue that has eroded the president's popularity in recent years, opinion surveys often show Kilicdaroglu, 74, keeping an edge and perhaps winning in a second round vote. He has promised a return to traditional economic policies, the parliamentary form of government, independence for the judiciary, which detractors claim Erdogan has abused to repress opposition, and improved ties with the West. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Even while the opposition's turnaround plan is anticipated to cause financial market instability and maybe the latest in a string of currency crises, it intends to reduce inflation, which reached 85% last year. "I know people are struggling to get by. I know the cost of living and the hopelessness of young people," Kilicdaroglu told a rally last week. "The time has come for change. A new spirit and understanding is necessary." Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × Detractors claim that Kilicdaroglu, who is despised by Erdogan amid his repeated electoral setbacks as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), does not have the ability to mobilise crowds and does not provide a clear vision for a time after Erdogan. He wants to capitalise on the opposition's victory in municipal elections in 2019, when the CHP beat Erdogan's AK Party in Istanbul and other major cities with the help of supporters of other opposition parties. Many people are unsure if Kilicdaroglu can defeat Erdogan, the president with the longest tenure in the country, whose charismatic campaigning has helped him win more than a dozen elections. Analysts claim that Erdogan is more vulnerable to loss than ever, despite his heavy-handed control of the press, judiciary, and government spending on social aid before to the election. The inflationary crisis that decimated household budgets was sparked by Erdogan's efforts to lower interest rates, the opposition has emphasised. According to the government, as part of a strategy promoting lira holdings, the policy boosted exports and investment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kilicdaroglu leaves Erdogan's shadow in Turkey's election campaign

Its election season is Turkiye. The incumbent govt and the opposition are giving them all to convince voters to choose their ballot. Claims and allegations are floating around, among them there is one - hinting at Washington's interference in Turkish polls. @ghadifrancis brings you the full report on this week's #TheWestAsiaPost

Turkey's Elections won't be free or fair?

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has the support of a six-party opposition alliance, said that if he comes into power, he will bring democracy and freedom to the country.

"The youth want democracy. They don't want the police to come to their doors early in the morning just because they tweeted,” he said while speaking to BBC.

Kilicdaroglu is the main rival of Erdogan in elections scheduled on May 14 and has clinched a narrow lead in the opinion polls. Presently, the citizens of Turkey can be imprisoned for "insulting the president" in Turkey.

"I am telling young people they can criticise me freely. I will make sure they have this right," announced the 74-year-old leader, who heads the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP).

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-arrests-110-accused-of-kurdish-militant-ties-ahead-of-election-586066">Turkey arrests 110 accused of Kurdish militant ties ahead of election</a>

Some supporters of Kilicdaroglu fear for his safety but the leader says that it comes with the path he has chosen in life.

"Being in politics in Turkey means choosing a life with risks. I will walk my path whatever Erdogan and his allies do. They can't put me off. They can't scare me. I made a promise to this nation,” Kilicdaroglu said.

Earlier, President Erdogan mocked his opponent stating that he "couldn't even herd a sheep".

Speaking about what would happen if Erdogan is defeated in the elections, Kilicdaroglu said, "We will retire him, and send him to his corner. He will step back quietly. No one should have any concerns about it."

Media reports suggest that the if the Turkish leader faces defeat, he may dispute the result. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu had already warned the vote will be "a coup attempt by the West".

Kilicdaroglu said that the opposition parties will remain vigilant, and will neither trust the president, "nor his Supreme Election Council nor his judges".

WATCH | Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker

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"By having more than one observer in all the polling stations, we want to ensure that votes are cast correctly, securely, and the counting is done properly. We have been taking precautions to achieve this, working hard for a year and a half,” he added.

Kilicdaroglu has also been witnessing a surge in support from the citizens. Oguz, aged 15, while participating in his rally said, "He is a good person, and he sees the future positively. If he becomes president our economy will rise up, and we will rise up."

"We want to become a part of the civilised world. We want free media and complete judicial independence. Erdogan does not think that way. He wants to be more authoritarian. The difference between us and Erdogan is the difference between black and white,” he added.

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has the support of a six-party opposition alliance, said that if he comes into power, he will bring democracy and freedom to the country.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has the support of a six-party opposition alliance, said that if he comes into power, he will bring democracy and freedom to the country. "The youth want democracy. They don't want the police to come to their doors early in the morning just because they tweeted,” he said while speaking to BBC. Kilicdaroglu is the main rival of Erdogan in elections scheduled on May 14 and has clinched a narrow lead in the opinion polls. Presently, the citizens of Turkey can be imprisoned for "insulting the president" in Turkey. "I am telling young people they can criticise me freely. I will make sure they have this right," announced the 74-year-old leader, who heads the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). ALSO READ | Turkey arrests 110 accused of Kurdish militant ties ahead of election Some supporters of Kilicdaroglu fear for his safety but the leader says that it comes with the path he has chosen in life. "Being in politics in Turkey means choosing a life with risks. I will walk my path whatever Erdogan and his allies do. They can't put me off. They can't scare me. I made a promise to this nation,” Kilicdaroglu said. Earlier, President Erdogan mocked his opponent stating that he "couldn't even herd a sheep". Speaking about what would happen if Erdogan is defeated in the elections, Kilicdaroglu said, "We will retire him, and send him to his corner. He will step back quietly. No one should have any concerns about it." Media reports suggest that the if the Turkish leader faces defeat, he may dispute the result. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu had already warned the vote will be "a coup attempt by the West". Kilicdaroglu said that the opposition parties will remain vigilant, and will neither trust the president, "nor his Supreme Election Council nor his judges". WATCH | Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker "By having more than one observer in all the polling stations, we want to ensure that votes are cast correctly, securely, and the counting is done properly. We have been taking precautions to achieve this, working hard for a year and a half,” he added. Kilicdaroglu has also been witnessing a surge in support from the citizens. Oguz, aged 15, while participating in his rally said, "He is a good person, and he sees the future positively. If he becomes president our economy will rise up, and we will rise up." "We want to become a part of the civilised world. We want free media and complete judicial independence. Erdogan does not think that way. He wants to be more authoritarian. The difference between us and Erdogan is the difference between black and white,” he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Erdogan's opponent Kilicdaroglu promises democracy and peace in Turkey

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Turkey sent Mexico a new search puppy on Wednesday after their rescue dog passed away while assisting the Mexican Army in finding survivors of the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on February 6.

Turkey sends puppy to Mexico after death of rescue dog in quake operation

Turkey on Wednesday gifted a new search puppy to Mexico after their rescue dog died while helping the Mexican Army locate survivors of the February 6 earthquake that shook Turkey and Syria.

The German Shepherd sent by Turkey is just three-month-old and he will now join the famous canine unit of Mexico which specialises in helping the army find survivors in countries that suffer&nbsp;natural disasters like earthquakes.

The furry puppy, who is black and beige in colour and has outsize paws and perky ears, has been given the name 'Arkadas' which means "friend" in the Turkish language based on online voting.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-rescuers-save-dog-after-four-days-in-earthquake-hit-turkey-560838">WATCH | Rescuers save dog after four days in earthquake-hit Turkey</a>

The trainer, who took care of rescue dog Proteo that died during a rescue mission in Turkey, will train Arkadas also, the army stated.

The rescue dogs were deployed by Mexico to Turkey after the nation was hit by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake near the southern border with Syria which led to the death&nbsp;of at least 54,000 people in both nations.

The remains of Proteo were sent back to Mexico, where an emotional ceremony was organised in his honour before he was buried. Earlier this year, Mexico had paid homage to the German Shepherd at a military funeral.

Mexico stated that the canine gift of Turkey showed that "humanitarian aid knows no limits or borders".

The ministry, on its Twitter account, also shared a link on which people could track the flight that the puppy boarded for Mexico City from Istanbul. After he arrived at the Mexico City airport, the Ministry of Defence's staff gave a warm welcome to the puppy.

The army welcomed the gifted rescue dog, Arkadas, in a formal ceremony organised at a military base in Mexico City on Wednesday.

The puppy was wearing a padded green harness which featured a tiny Mexican flag. The ceremony was joined by his new human and canine colleagues, who were standing in attention pose.

WATCH | Dog rescued eight days after Turkey's Quake

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The puppy, who seemed excited during the ceremony, barked as the national anthem of Mexico blared out from the speakers.

"Thanks to my friends from Mexico who welcomed me with great affection, I promise to do my best to be a great search and rescue dog," tweeted the Mexican defence ministry on behalf of Arkadas.

The ministry, on its Facebook page, said that it was "waiting with open arms" for the puppy sent by Turkey, stating that it hoped Arkadas would follow the paw steps of Proteo.

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Turkey on Wednesday gifted a new search puppy to Mexico after their rescue dog died while helping the Mexican Army locate survivors of the February 6 earthquake that shook Turkey and Syria.

Turkey on Wednesday gifted a new search puppy to Mexico after their rescue dog died while helping the Mexican Army locate survivors of the February 6 earthquake that shook Turkey and Syria. The German Shepherd sent by Turkey is just three-month-old and he will now join the famous canine unit of Mexico which specialises in helping the army find survivors in countries that suffer natural disasters like earthquakes. The furry puppy, who is black and beige in colour and has outsize paws and perky ears, has been given the name 'Arkadas' which means "friend" in the Turkish language based on online voting. ALSO READ | WATCH | Rescuers save dog after four days in earthquake-hit Turkey The trainer, who took care of rescue dog Proteo that died during a rescue mission in Turkey, will train Arkadas also, the army stated. The rescue dogs were deployed by Mexico to Turkey after the nation was hit by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake near the southern border with Syria which led to the death of at least 54,000 people in both nations. The remains of Proteo were sent back to Mexico, where an emotional ceremony was organised in his honour before he was buried. Earlier this year, Mexico had paid homage to the German Shepherd at a military funeral. Mexico stated that the canine gift of Turkey showed that "humanitarian aid knows no limits or borders". The ministry, on its Twitter account, also shared a link on which people could track the flight that the puppy boarded for Mexico City from Istanbul. After he arrived at the Mexico City airport, the Ministry of Defence's staff gave a warm welcome to the puppy. The army welcomed the gifted rescue dog, Arkadas, in a formal ceremony organised at a military base in Mexico City on Wednesday. The puppy was wearing a padded green harness which featured a tiny Mexican flag. The ceremony was joined by his new human and canine colleagues, who were standing in attention pose. WATCH | Dog rescued eight days after Turkey's Quake The puppy, who seemed excited during the ceremony, barked as the national anthem of Mexico blared out from the speakers. "Thanks to my friends from Mexico who welcomed me with great affection, I promise to do my best to be a great search and rescue dog," tweeted the Mexican defence ministry on behalf of Arkadas. The ministry, on its Facebook page, said that it was "waiting with open arms" for the puppy sent by Turkey, stating that it hoped Arkadas would follow the paw steps of Proteo. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey will hold the most consequential election in recent history on 14 May. Voters will decide whether to keep the current government headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has ruled for more than two decades or opt instead for a change of leadership in Ankara. Here is all you need to know about the upcoming elections.

Turkey Elections 2023: All you need to know

Turkey will hold the most consequential election in recent history on 14 May. Voters will decide whether to keep the current government headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has ruled for more than two decades or opt instead for a change of leadership in Ankara. WION decodes upcoming Turkey elections in this report.

Turkey Elections 2023: How Turkish diaspora will become kingmaker

May 14th is the D-day in Turkey, it will mean a new President for the country. Early voting is already underway and it's looking like neck to neck as citizens gear up to choose their next leader. The Interior Minister in Turkey has made a damning claim saying that the West, particularly, the US is using the elections to stage a political coup in Turkey.

Turkey's Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu claims US' attempting political coup in Turkey

ISIS leader Abu Hussein al-Qurashi’s six-month rule ended when he detonated a suicide vest during a Turkish special forces raid in northwest Syria on Saturday after refusing to surrender, a senior Turkish security official said.

The third ISIS leader to die by detonating an explosive vest during a raid since 2019, Qurashi leaves behind an organization that once ruled millions of people via its control of a third of Iraq and Syria but has now been forced underground.

The four-hour raid, led by Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT), saw special forces blast their way through a perimeter fence, back door and walls of his hideout in a two-storey building near the town of Jandaris, the security official said.

Two Syrian security sources said Turkish-backed Syrian armed groups set a perimeter around the area while Turkish special forces, who one source said earlier entered Syria in armoured vehicles, raided the house.

The MIT declined to comment for this report. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday Qurashi “was neutralized” as part of the intelligence forces’ operation.

Images of the site provided by the security official showed a red-roofed building with most of the walls on its ground floor blown out.

Metal and cinderblock debris lay scattered on a paved patio with a small fountain, and on the brick-red soil of an adjacent field planted with olive trees.

The MIT, which the Turkish source said had been following Qurashi for a long time, conducted the covert operation after determining he would soon relocate, the official said, adding that Qurashi detonated his suicide vest when he realised he would be captured.

There were calls for Qurashi to surrender but no response, the source said.

Like his predecessor, Qurashi never made a public address, a marker of how far the group’s reach has fallen since former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi climbed the pulpit of a crowded mosque in Iraq in 2014 to declare his self-styled caliphate.

<h2>‘Last safe heaven'’</h2>

Qurashi was the latest in a series of senior ISIS members to be either captured or killed in Syria’s northwest, a sliver of territory held by rival militias, including hardline armed groups and jihadist factions backed by Turkey.

The area has become the most significant ISIS safe haven in the region after the group was territorially defeated in Iraq in 2017 and Syria in 2019, with members and supporters slipping across the remote 600-km (370-mile) Iraqi-Syrian border.

Navvar Shaban, of the Omran Center for Strategic Studies, said: “There are a lot of sleeper cells in these areas that can facilitate more ISIS officials coming into these zones, and plenty of checkpoints at which they can pay money to get through easily.”

An Iraqi intelligence official said: “The only safe haven for the senior Daesh (ISIS) leaders is in Syria, and specifically in areas bordering Turkey.”

Iraqi intelligence cooperation with Turkey played a major role in recent operations targeting senior ISIS members, according to the source and a second Iraqi intelligence official focused on key IS leaders’ activities in Iraq, Syria and Turkey.

The cooperation helped Turkey determine the approximate whereabouts of Qurashi in Syria

They said Turkey facilitated the entry of Iraqi agents into northwestern Syria, who then lured senior ISIS leader Khaled al-Jabouri from Turkey to Syria where he was killed in a U.S. drone strike last month.

In the process of that operation, Turkish-backed armed groups detained two ISIS members, based in Afrin and a village near Jandaris, who had aimed to provide Jabouri with a message from Qurashi, the sources said.

“This was a red flag that Qurashi was highly likely hiding in this area,” one of the sources said.

The U.S. had also helped with the provision of intelligence obtained by advanced systems that could intercept ISIS communications in Syria, the source said.

A spokesperson for the U.S.-led anti-ISIS coalition said they do not comment on the military operations of other nations. A Turkish security official declined to comment on any Iraqi intelligence involvement in the operation.

<h2>Succession</h2>

With Qurashi gone, analysts expect ISIS to eventually announce a new leader.

He would become the fourth in as many years, presiding over a group that has seen a significant reduction in activities across the areas it operates, chiefly the Middle East and Africa.

The Iraqi intelligence officials said ISIS’s new leader would likely be an Iraqi, like his predecessors, but there were only a handful of leaders left who were eligible to take over the role, three of whom were known to Iraqi intelligence.

Hassan Hassan, the author of a book on ISIS and editor of New Lines magazine which publishes work on the group, said ISIS previously built up leadership profiles to prepare followers for succession but had not been able to do so in recent years.

“ISIS no longer has the type of credible leaders it can advertise, at least internally, and the security situation has also become too complicated for it to prioritise that aspect,” he told Reuters.

“The last leader was the hardest for even Iraqi and American intelligence to guess, and this applies even more to the coming one,” he said.

ISIS has not confirmed or commented on the killing of its leader.

ISIS militants continue to wage insurgent attacks and a U.N. report published in February said ISIS is estimated to have 5,000 to 7,000 members and supporters spread between Syria and Iraq, roughly half of them fighters.

ISIS leader Abu Hussein al-Qurashi’s six-month rule ended when he detonated a suicide vest during a Turkish special forces raid in northwest Syria on Saturday after refusing to surrender, a senior Turkish security official said.

ISIS leader Abu Hussein al-Qurashi’s six-month rule ended when he detonated a suicide vest during a Turkish special forces raid in northwest Syria on Saturday after refusing to surrender, a senior Turkish security official said. The third ISIS leader to die by detonating an explosive vest during a raid since 2019, Qurashi leaves behind an organization that once ruled millions of people via its control of a third of Iraq and Syria but has now been forced underground. The four-hour raid, led by Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT), saw special forces blast their way through a perimeter fence, back door and walls of his hideout in a two-storey building near the town of Jandaris, the security official said. Two Syrian security sources said Turkish-backed Syrian armed groups set a perimeter around the area while Turkish special forces, who one source said earlier entered Syria in armoured vehicles, raided the house. The MIT declined to comment for this report. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday Qurashi “was neutralized” as part of the intelligence forces’ operation. Images of the site provided by the security official showed a red-roofed building with most of the walls on its ground floor blown out. Metal and cinderblock debris lay scattered on a paved patio with a small fountain, and on the brick-red soil of an adjacent field planted with olive trees. The MIT, which the Turkish source said had been following Qurashi for a long time, conducted the covert operation after determining he would soon relocate, the official said, adding that Qurashi detonated his suicide vest when he realised he would be captured. There were calls for Qurashi to surrender but no response, the source said. Like his predecessor, Qurashi never made a public address, a marker of how far the group’s reach has fallen since former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi climbed the pulpit of a crowded mosque in Iraq in 2014 to declare his self-styled caliphate. ‘Last safe heaven'’ Qurashi was the latest in a series of senior ISIS members to be either captured or killed in Syria’s northwest, a sliver of territory held by rival militias, including hardline armed groups and jihadist factions backed by Turkey. The area has become the most significant ISIS safe haven in the region after the group was territorially defeated in Iraq in 2017 and Syria in 2019, with members and supporters slipping across the remote 600-km (370-mile) Iraqi-Syrian border. Navvar Shaban, of the Omran Center for Strategic Studies, said: “There are a lot of sleeper cells in these areas that can facilitate more ISIS officials coming into these zones, and plenty of checkpoints at which they can pay money to get through easily.” An Iraqi intelligence official said: “The only safe haven for the senior Daesh (ISIS) leaders is in Syria, and specifically in areas bordering Turkey.” Iraqi intelligence cooperation with Turkey played a major role in recent operations targeting senior ISIS members, according to the source and a second Iraqi intelligence official focused on key IS leaders’ activities in Iraq, Syria and Turkey. The cooperation helped Turkey determine the approximate whereabouts of Qurashi in Syria They said Turkey facilitated the entry of Iraqi agents into northwestern Syria, who then lured senior ISIS leader Khaled al-Jabouri from Turkey to Syria where he was killed in a U.S. drone strike last month. In the process of that operation, Turkish-backed armed groups detained two ISIS members, based in Afrin and a village near Jandaris, who had aimed to provide Jabouri with a message from Qurashi, the sources said. “This was a red flag that Qurashi was highly likely hiding in this area,” one of the sources said. The U.S. had also helped with the provision of intelligence obtained by advanced systems that could intercept ISIS communications in Syria, the source said. A spokesperson for the U.S.-led anti-ISIS coalition said they do not comment on the military operations of other nations. A Turkish security official declined to comment on any Iraqi intelligence involvement in the operation. Succession With Qurashi gone, analysts expect ISIS to eventually announce a new leader. He would become the fourth in as many years, presiding over a group that has seen a significant reduction in activities across the areas it operates, chiefly the Middle East and Africa. The Iraqi intelligence officials said ISIS’s new leader would likely be an Iraqi, like his predecessors, but there were only a handful of leaders left who were eligible to take over the role, three of whom were known to Iraqi intelligence. Hassan Hassan, the author of a book on ISIS and editor of New Lines magazine which publishes work on the group, said ISIS previously built up leadership profiles to prepare followers for succession but had not been able to do so in recent years. “ISIS no longer has the type of credible leaders it can advertise, at least internally, and the security situation has also become too complicated for it to prioritise that aspect,” he told Reuters. “The last leader was the hardest for even Iraqi and American intelligence to guess, and this applies even more to the coming one,” he said. ISIS has not confirmed or commented on the killing of its leader. ISIS militants continue to wage insurgent attacks and a U.N. report published in February said ISIS is estimated to have 5,000 to 7,000 members and supporters spread between Syria and Iraq, roughly half of them fighters.

Turkish raid prompted ISIS leader to detonate suicide vest

According to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the suspected commander of the Islamic State organisation was killed in Syria in an operation carried out by Turkey's MIT intelligence agency. Watch the video to know more.

Suspected ISIS Chief killed in northern Syria, claims Turkey | WION Fineprint

ISIS Chief Qurashi killed in Syria, Turkey's Erdogan makes big announcement

The suspected ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria)&nbsp;chief has been killed in Syria in an operation carried out by Turkey's MIT intelligence agency, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday.

"The suspected leader of Daesh, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, has been neutralised in an operation carried out yesterday (Saturday) by the MIT in Syria," Erdogan said on broadcast.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-18-dead-dozens-injured-as-tourist-bus-in-mexico-plunges-in-ravine-587657">At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine</a>

On November 30, ISIS announced the death of its former leader, Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi. The outfit then appointed Abu Hussein al-Qurashi as his replacement.

Turkish intelligence operatives and local military police in Jindires, in the northwest area of Afrin, shut off a zone on Saturday, according to an AFP journalist in northern Syria.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-conflict-un-chief-sending-envoy-to-nation-as-fighting-continues-587659">Sudan conflict: UN chief sending envoy to nation as fighting continues</a>

Locals informed AFP that a farm that had been abandoned was being utilised as an Islamic school. This is where the operation was carried out which subsequently resulted in the killing of the suspected ISIS chief.&nbsp;

Turkey has soldiers stationed in northern Syria since 2020, and with the assistance of Syrian auxiliary forces, controls large zones.

Midway through April, the United States conducted a helicopter raid in northern Syria on the grounds that ISIS had been preparing assaults in the Middle East and Europe.

ISIS member Abd-al Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali was reportedly killed in the operation, according to US Central Command.

On April 16 in Syria, suspected ISIS militants killed at least 41 persons, 24 of them were civilians.

Watch | Experts predict AI to be the forefront of 2024 US election campaign

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US forces, in the first week of April, claimed to have assassinated Khalid Aydd Ahmad al-Jabouri, an ISIS senior who was in charge of plotting strikes in Europe.

ISIS has carried out several terrorist attacks in Europe in recent years, primarily between 2014 and 2017. Some of the major attacks include November 2015 Paris attacks, March 2016 Brussels bombings, July 2016 Nice truck attack, December 2016 Berlin truck attack and May 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.&nbsp;

These attacks, and others like them, have sparked widespread fear and concern about the threat of terrorism in Europe and the ability of security forces to prevent such attacks.&nbsp;

Despite ISIS losing much of its territorial control in Iraq and Syria, the group's global network of affiliates and its ability to inspire lone-wolf attacks means that the threat of terrorism remains high.

In October 2019, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in a US military operation in northwestern Syria. His death was seen as a major blow to ISIS, although the group has continued to carry out terrorist attacks and maintain its global network of affiliates.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The suspected ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) chief has been killed in Syria in an operation carried out by Turkey's MIT intelligence agency, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday.

The suspected ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) chief has been killed in Syria in an operation carried out by Turkey's MIT intelligence agency, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday. "The suspected leader of Daesh, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, has been neutralised in an operation carried out yesterday (Saturday) by the MIT in Syria," Erdogan said on broadcast. Also Read | At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine On November 30, ISIS announced the death of its former leader, Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi. The outfit then appointed Abu Hussein al-Qurashi as his replacement. Turkish intelligence operatives and local military police in Jindires, in the northwest area of Afrin, shut off a zone on Saturday, according to an AFP journalist in northern Syria. Also Read | Sudan conflict: UN chief sending envoy to nation as fighting continues Locals informed AFP that a farm that had been abandoned was being utilised as an Islamic school. This is where the operation was carried out which subsequently resulted in the killing of the suspected ISIS chief. Turkey has soldiers stationed in northern Syria since 2020, and with the assistance of Syrian auxiliary forces, controls large zones. Midway through April, the United States conducted a helicopter raid in northern Syria on the grounds that ISIS had been preparing assaults in the Middle East and Europe. ISIS member Abd-al Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali was reportedly killed in the operation, according to US Central Command. On April 16 in Syria, suspected ISIS militants killed at least 41 persons, 24 of them were civilians. Watch | Experts predict AI to be the forefront of 2024 US election campaign × US forces, in the first week of April, claimed to have assassinated Khalid Aydd Ahmad al-Jabouri, an ISIS senior who was in charge of plotting strikes in Europe. ISIS has carried out several terrorist attacks in Europe in recent years, primarily between 2014 and 2017. Some of the major attacks include November 2015 Paris attacks, March 2016 Brussels bombings, July 2016 Nice truck attack, December 2016 Berlin truck attack and May 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. These attacks, and others like them, have sparked widespread fear and concern about the threat of terrorism in Europe and the ability of security forces to prevent such attacks. Despite ISIS losing much of its territorial control in Iraq and Syria, the group's global network of affiliates and its ability to inspire lone-wolf attacks means that the threat of terrorism remains high. In October 2019, ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in a US military operation in northwestern Syria. His death was seen as a major blow to ISIS, although the group has continued to carry out terrorist attacks and maintain its global network of affiliates. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president

Turkish aviation authorities have cancelled the permission previously granted to the Flyone Armenia airline to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace, news agency Reuters reported on Sunday citing Armenpress news agency.&nbsp;

Aram Ananyan, who is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Flyone Armenia Airline, told the news agency that they didn't even receive any advance notice.&nbsp;

Ananyan, said, "For reasons incomprehensible to us and without any visible grounds, Turkish aviation authorities cancelled the permission previously granted to the FlyOne Armenia airline to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace."&nbsp;

"Turkish aviation authorities implemented the cancellation without prior notification, putting our airline and our passengers in an uncomfortable situation," the chairman further added.&nbsp;

The low-cost FlyOne Armenia is a subsidiary of Moldovan airline FlyOne and commenced service in December 2021. Ananyan informed Armenpress in February 2023 that the carrier has five Airbus planes and served 14 destinations in eight European and Middle Eastern countries.&nbsp;

Notably, Ankara has had no diplomatic or economic&nbsp;ties with Armenia since the 1990s and both nations&nbsp;are at odds&nbsp;over Armenian claims that&nbsp;over&nbsp;1.5 million people were killed in 1915&nbsp;by the Ottoman Empire, the predecessor to modern&nbsp;Turkey. Armenia claims it was a genocide, which Turkey rejects.&nbsp;

However, a border gate between the neighbouring nations was opened in February to allow aid to victims of the devastating earthquakes in southern Turkey for the first time in 35 years.

<h2>Armenia and Azerbaijan to hold peace settlement talks</h2>

In an attempt to normalise relations, Armenia and Azerbaijan will hold a new round of talks in Washington on Sunday. The talks come after weeks of rising tensions over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.&nbsp;

News agencies reported that armed forces from the two Caucasus neighbours have often exchanged fire over the mountain enclave, which is officially regarded as part of Azerbaijan but is primarily populated by ethnic Armenians.&nbsp;

Azerbaijan last Sunday established a new checkpoint on the Lachin corridor, a road to Karabakh that passes through Azeri territory, in what Armenia described as a flagrant violation of a 2020 ceasefire.&nbsp;

The spokesperson, Ani Badalyan, said on her official Facebook page: "From April 30, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan will be in Washington DC on a working visit. The next round of discussions on the agreement on normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan is scheduled."&nbsp;

But so far, there was no immediate confirmation of the meeting by Azerbaijan. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Turkish aviation authorities have cancelled the permission previously granted to the Flyone Armenia airline to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace, news agency Reuters reported on Sunday citing Armenpress news agency.

Turkish aviation authorities have cancelled the permission previously granted to the Flyone Armenia airline to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace, news agency Reuters reported on Sunday citing Armenpress news agency. Aram Ananyan, who is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Flyone Armenia Airline, told the news agency that they didn't even receive any advance notice. Ananyan, said, "For reasons incomprehensible to us and without any visible grounds, Turkish aviation authorities cancelled the permission previously granted to the FlyOne Armenia airline to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace." "Turkish aviation authorities implemented the cancellation without prior notification, putting our airline and our passengers in an uncomfortable situation," the chairman further added. The low-cost FlyOne Armenia is a subsidiary of Moldovan airline FlyOne and commenced service in December 2021. Ananyan informed Armenpress in February 2023 that the carrier has five Airbus planes and served 14 destinations in eight European and Middle Eastern countries. Notably, Ankara has had no diplomatic or economic ties with Armenia since the 1990s and both nations are at odds over Armenian claims that over 1.5 million people were killed in 1915 by the Ottoman Empire, the predecessor to modern Turkey. Armenia claims it was a genocide, which Turkey rejects. However, a border gate between the neighbouring nations was opened in February to allow aid to victims of the devastating earthquakes in southern Turkey for the first time in 35 years. Armenia and Azerbaijan to hold peace settlement talks In an attempt to normalise relations, Armenia and Azerbaijan will hold a new round of talks in Washington on Sunday. The talks come after weeks of rising tensions over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. News agencies reported that armed forces from the two Caucasus neighbours have often exchanged fire over the mountain enclave, which is officially regarded as part of Azerbaijan but is primarily populated by ethnic Armenians. Azerbaijan last Sunday established a new checkpoint on the Lachin corridor, a road to Karabakh that passes through Azeri territory, in what Armenia described as a flagrant violation of a 2020 ceasefire. The spokesperson, Ani Badalyan, said on her official Facebook page: "From April 30, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan will be in Washington DC on a working visit. The next round of discussions on the agreement on normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan is scheduled." But so far, there was no immediate confirmation of the meeting by Azerbaijan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey closes airspace to airline FlyOne Armenia without warning: Report

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

Erdogan falls sick during a live interview

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary rebel group, have been accused by the Sudanese military of firing at a Turkish evacuation plane on Friday (April 28).

The Turkish C-130 plane was on its way to the Wadi Seidna airfield in northern Sudan to bring back&nbsp;Turkish nationals from the war-torn country, according to the Sudanese military forces, when "rebels" opened fire on it. The official Sudan News Agency reported that the jet had been damaged and one crew member injured.&nbsp;

On Twitter, the Turkish Ministry of Defence acknowledged that its aircraft had been shot at at the airport. According to the ministry, nobody was injured.&nbsp;

Later, reporters were informed by Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar that two planes had been sent to Sudan for the evacuations. While the damage to the gunfire-damaged plane is being evaluated, one of them returned. No casualties were reported, and he emphasised that evacuations will go on as usual.&nbsp;

In a statement, the RSF denied firing shots at the Turkish evacuation plane.

“We refute these claims and categorically state that they are not based on any factual evidence,” it read.

<h2>What is happening in Sudan?</h2>

The RSF and the armed forces have been engaged in a battle in Sudan for almost two weeks now. The conflict has continued despite several attempts at a ceasefire. A military-RSF ceasefire that was supposed to terminate on Thursday was prolonged for a further 72 hours. Since April 15, at least 512 people have died and 4,193 have been injured in fighting, according to the Sudanese health ministry.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-army-rsf-agree-to-extend-truce-by-72-hours-586826">Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours</a>

Despite the ceasefire, fighting went on in the southern Sudanese region of Darfur, and on Thursday, RSF positions in Khartoum were attacked by Sudanese fighter jets.

<h2>Evacuation attempts</h2>

Turkey has been attempting to mediate between the warring parties in Sudan, as have other nations in the area. Last week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attempted to reach out to both sides.

For days, Turkey and a number of other Middle Eastern and European nations have been demanding that their citizens leave Sudan. The US swiftly evacuated its diplomats, but it has not yet launched a significant effort to evacuate its citizens. Al-Monitor reported on Thursday that according to the US State Department, an overland evacuation of US citizens was planned.

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The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary rebel group, have been accused by the Sudanese military of firing at a Turkish evacuation plane on Friday (April 28).

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary rebel group, have been accused by the Sudanese military of firing at a Turkish evacuation plane on Friday (April 28). The Turkish C-130 plane was on its way to the Wadi Seidna airfield in northern Sudan to bring back Turkish nationals from the war-torn country, according to the Sudanese military forces, when "rebels" opened fire on it. The official Sudan News Agency reported that the jet had been damaged and one crew member injured. On Twitter, the Turkish Ministry of Defence acknowledged that its aircraft had been shot at at the airport. According to the ministry, nobody was injured. Later, reporters were informed by Turkey's Defence Minister Hulusi Akar that two planes had been sent to Sudan for the evacuations. While the damage to the gunfire-damaged plane is being evaluated, one of them returned. No casualties were reported, and he emphasised that evacuations will go on as usual. In a statement, the RSF denied firing shots at the Turkish evacuation plane. “We refute these claims and categorically state that they are not based on any factual evidence,” it read. What is happening in Sudan? The RSF and the armed forces have been engaged in a battle in Sudan for almost two weeks now. The conflict has continued despite several attempts at a ceasefire. A military-RSF ceasefire that was supposed to terminate on Thursday was prolonged for a further 72 hours. Since April 15, at least 512 people have died and 4,193 have been injured in fighting, according to the Sudanese health ministry. ALSO READ | Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours Despite the ceasefire, fighting went on in the southern Sudanese region of Darfur, and on Thursday, RSF positions in Khartoum were attacked by Sudanese fighter jets. Evacuation attempts Turkey has been attempting to mediate between the warring parties in Sudan, as have other nations in the area. Last week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attempted to reach out to both sides. For days, Turkey and a number of other Middle Eastern and European nations have been demanding that their citizens leave Sudan. The US swiftly evacuated its diplomats, but it has not yet launched a significant effort to evacuate its citizens. Al-Monitor reported on Thursday that according to the US State Department, an overland evacuation of US citizens was planned. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sudan crisis: Turkish evacuation plane shot at after ceasefire

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

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

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

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

The West Asia Post: Turkiye readies for crucial polls

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

Turkey: Erdogan kicks off a contest to hold onto power

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

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

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

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

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has launched his ruling party's bid to stay in power, as he seeks to extend his leadership of Turkey beyond 20 years.

Turkey elections: Erdogan kicks off race to hold on to power

In the aftermath of deadly earthquakes, Turkey is going to polls next month. Incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's political career is on the line. And ironically, it could depend on a party long felt side-lined in Turkish politics.

Kurds emerge as kingmaker in Turkey election | The West Asia Post

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived in Turkey on Thursday to discuss the war in Ukraine and the future of a key export deal that has been allowing the flow of grain to continue to countries where hunger is a growing threat.

War in Ukraine: Russia's Lavrov meets Turkish counterpart to discuss grain deal to aid world’s poor

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

Gravitas Global Headlines: Turkish parliament ratifies Finland's NATO membership

Turkey on Thursday became the last NATO member to ratify Finland's membership of the US-led defence alliance. With this, Finland is well on its way to becoming the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 31st member nation. "This evening, we are keeping the promises we made to Finland," announced ruling party lawmaker Akif Cagatay Kilic moments before the vote in which Turkish lawmakers unanimously backed Finland's accession to the international organisation. The parliament's approval as per AFP comes two weeks after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan publically gave his blessing to the Nordic country's bid.

Watch |&nbsp;Finland's president in Turkey for talks on NATO bid

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Finland now needs to complete a few technical steps before it officially becomes the newest member of the world's most powerful military bloc. The process as per officials should be completed as early as next week.

The nation and its neighbour Sweden, following Russia's launch of a 'special military operation' against Ukraine, decided last May to end their decades of non-alignment and join the multi-member bloc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-parliament-backs-finlands-nato-accession-576377">Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession</a>

Their applications were accepted at the alliance summit last June, but the bids still needed to be ratified by all the member nation's parliaments.&nbsp;

According to AFP, the process was stalled due to Hungary and Turkey. The Hungarian Parliament ratified Finland's membership on Monday (March 27).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-membership-bid-gets-another-jolt-after-quran-burning-incident-outraged-turkey-555120">'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan</a>

Finland and Sweden, who applied for membership together, had to break up their bids to avoid delay to both their bids. Owing to long-standing disputes, Turkish President Erdogan had reportedly put up stiff resistance to Sweden's candidacy. However, the nation still hopes to join the military alliance in time for the Vilnius summit scheduled for July.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey on Thursday became the last NATO member to ratify Finland's membership of the US-led defence alliance. With this, Finland is well on its way to becoming the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 31st member nation.

Turkey on Thursday became the last NATO member to ratify Finland's membership of the US-led defence alliance. With this, Finland is well on its way to becoming the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 31st member nation. "This evening, we are keeping the promises we made to Finland," announced ruling party lawmaker Akif Cagatay Kilic moments before the vote in which Turkish lawmakers unanimously backed Finland's accession to the international organisation. The parliament's approval as per AFP comes two weeks after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan publically gave his blessing to the Nordic country's bid. Watch | Finland's president in Turkey for talks on NATO bid Finland now needs to complete a few technical steps before it officially becomes the newest member of the world's most powerful military bloc. The process as per officials should be completed as early as next week. The nation and its neighbour Sweden, following Russia's launch of a 'special military operation' against Ukraine, decided last May to end their decades of non-alignment and join the multi-member bloc. Also read | Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession Their applications were accepted at the alliance summit last June, but the bids still needed to be ratified by all the member nation's parliaments. According to AFP, the process was stalled due to Hungary and Turkey. The Hungarian Parliament ratified Finland's membership on Monday (March 27). Also read | 'Won't support Sweden's NATO membership', says Turkish President Erdogan Finland and Sweden, who applied for membership together, had to break up their bids to avoid delay to both their bids. Owing to long-standing disputes, Turkish President Erdogan had reportedly put up stiff resistance to Sweden's candidacy. However, the nation still hopes to join the military alliance in time for the Vilnius summit scheduled for July. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey backs Finland's NATO membership, becoming last bloc member to ratify

The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.&nbsp;Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days.

“All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö&nbsp;tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said.

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<a href="https://t.co/bK15QpZKGX">pic.twitter.com/bK15QpZKGX</a>
— Sauli Niinistö (@niinisto) <a href="https://twitter.com/niinisto/status/1641547055414886401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war&nbsp;that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022.

We explain the basic&nbsp;tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can&nbsp;reshape the group.

<h2>Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance?</h2>

The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed.&nbsp;

Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal."&nbsp;

Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent&nbsp;of their area.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-buying-weapons-from-north-korea-in-exchange-for-food-claims-us-577670">Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US</a>

As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger.

Only 28 per cent&nbsp;of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/660842/survey-on-perception-of-nato-membership-in-sweden/">data compiled by Statista</a>. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent&nbsp;in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent&nbsp;in July 2022.&nbsp;

Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent&nbsp;of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent&nbsp;in May 2022.

Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so.

<h2>What would Finland's and Sweden's&nbsp;inclusion mean for NATO?</h2>

With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent&nbsp;land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank.

Although,&nbsp;Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times.&nbsp;

Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership

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It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there.&nbsp;

Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance.

<h2>What does NATO signify and who are part of it?</h2>

The United States,&nbsp;United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country.&nbsp;

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Map showing the member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) <a href="https://t.co/tU2T6klTe4">pic.twitter.com/tU2T6klTe4</a>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1480500919477411847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance.

At present,&nbsp;NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.

The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out. Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days. “All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said. pic.twitter.com/bK15QpZKGX — Sauli Niinistö (@niinisto) March 30, 2023 × The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022. We explain the basic tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can reshape the group. Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance? The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed. Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP. As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal." Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent of their area. ALSO READ | Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger. Only 28 per cent of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to data compiled by Statista. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent in July 2022. Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent in May 2022. Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so. What would Finland's and Sweden's inclusion mean for NATO? With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank. Although, Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times. Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry. ALSO WATCH | Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there. Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance. What does NATO signify and who are part of it? The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country. Map showing the member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) pic.twitter.com/tU2T6klTe4 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) January 10, 2022 × The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance. At present, NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: From neutral to NATO, what does Finland's entry mean for the military alliance?

Frank Hoogerbeat is a Dutch researcher at Solar System Geometry Survey. In the past, he predicted the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria based on planetary positions.

Frank Hoogerbeat is a Dutch researcher at Solar System Geometry Survey. In the past, he predicted the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria based on planetary positions. Recently, he predicted the earthquake in Delhi-NCR on March 21 in the latest prediction video on SSGEOS's YouTube channel posted on March 20. In the video 'Planetary & Seismic Update March 20 2023,' Frank Hoogerbeets suggested "some seismic increase, more likely around March 22" as he observed a primary lunar peak followed by planetary conjunction after the New Moon on March 21. His forecast of earthquakes in India was correct. People around the globe are surprised to know the accuracy of Hoogerbeets' earthquake predictions. Here's everything you need to know about Geologist Frank Hoogerbeets and his predictions. Frank Hoogerbeets Predictions Frank Hoogerbeets predicted the upcoming earthquakes in the recent videos on SSGEOS's YouTube channel. He estimated 'strong to major' seismic activity of 7.1 magnitude on March 16 in the Kermadec Islands and a 6.8 magnitude earthquake near the coast of Ecuador on March 18. Both his predictions were accurate. Furthermore, he explained he based his predictions on the analysis of the planetary geometry and pointing to lunar (red) heights in the SSGI graph. According to him, the planetary conjunction of Sun-Mercury-Jupiter converged with New Moon on March 21. Thus, he anticipated a 'mid-6 magnitude range' earthquake on March 22. Frank Hoogerbeets consistently uploads YouTube videos and Twitter posts with seismic updates on SSGEOS's social media handles. In the recent video titled 'NOT EVERY FULL MOON IS THE SAME,' he briefs the viewers about the correlation between the full moon and planetary positions with earthquakes. SSGEOS' Solar System Geometry Index Frank Hoogerbeets works for SSGEOS, the Netherlands-based research institute. It has crucially contributed to 'seismic activity predictions' by launching pivotal software Solpage and SSGI. Frank Hoogerbeets contends that planetary alignment can foretell earthquakes. The Solar System Geometry Index (SSGI) is a dataset computation based on values provided by particular geometric planetary positions, the Moon and the Sun. ALSO READ | Here are some safety measures you should take when earthquake strikes WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Frank Hoogerbeets, the researcher behind predictions of quakes in Delhi-NCR, Turkey & Syria?

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