Türkiye launched Operation Claw-Sword air raids against outlawed Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria on Sunday, almost a week after a deadly blast in central Istanbul, the defence minister said.

Türkiye launched Operation Claw-Sword air raids against outlawed Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria on Sunday, almost a week after a deadly blast in central Istanbul, the defence minister said. “We are starting Operation Claw-Sword from now on,” said Türkiye's defence minister Hulusi Akar as per an AFP report. A defence ministry statement said he directed the offensive from the air force operations centre with top commanders, before the planes left their bases to hit the targets. Türkiye's air force launched an attack on Kurdish bases in northern Syria. The Turkish defence ministry tweeted, “The hour of reckoning has come.” In another post, the ministry shared a video of the Kurdish base being hit with precision strikes. Hesap zamanı! Alçaklardan hain saldırıların hesabı soruluyor! 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/pnEbFDkOF7 — T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) November 19, 2022 × Terör yuvaları tam isabet vuruşlarla yerle bir ediliyor! 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/9jiFRn0hej — T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) November 19, 2022 × British-based war monitoring group the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said that at least 31 people have been killed so far in the air raids. Notably, Türkiye has blamed the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and its affiliate Syria Kurdish groups for the blast that rocked central Istanbul last week, killing 13. WATCH | Istanbul street blast suspect arrested × According to reports, the target of Turkish attacks has been the northern Syrian border city of Kobane. Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) confirmed that the city had been targetted in the attacks. “Kobane, the city that defeated ISIS, is subjected to bombardment by the aircraft of the Turkish occupation,” tweeted SDF spokesperson Farhad Shami. updated#Kobane, the city that defeated ISIS, is subjected to bombardment by the aircraft of the Turkish occupation. — Farhad Shami (@farhad_shami) November 19, 2022 × “The Turkish occupation aircraft are shelling the al-Beilonya village which is heavily populated with Afrin IDPs who were forcibly displaced from Afrin in 2018,” he added. Notably, Turkish interior minister Suleyman Soylu in the aftermath of the blast said that the order for the attack was given in Kobane, where Turkish forces have carried out operations against the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia in recent years. Soylu added that the bomber had passed through Afrin, another region in northern Syria, which has been bombed by Turkish jets on Sunday. Read more: Forty-six, including Syrian woman accused of planting the bomb, detained for Istanbul blast The PKK and YPG have denied any involvement in the blast. Meanwhile, Turkish police has captured the chief suspect Alham Albashir -- a Syrian woman who is said to have been working for Kurdish militants, in an Istanbul suburb. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Türkiye launches air raids against Kurdish militants in Syria and Iraq, 31 dead

A Turkish court has given 8,658 years in prison to an Islamic&nbsp;televangelist and sex cult leader who surrounded himself with women wearing minimal clothes, whom he called "kittens."

Adnan Oktar,66, led television programmes of him surrounded by women wearing lots of makeup and little clothes to promote creationism and conservative rules, the Anadolu news agency reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/at-least-7-killed-18-injured-after-bus-crash-in-eastern-turkey-532030">Also read |&nbsp;At least 7 killed, 18 injured after bus crash in eastern Turkey</a>

On Wednesday, the Istanbul court&nbsp;sentenced him to 891 years in prison for running a criminal organisation, sexual abuse, denial of education rights and illegal storage of personal data. In total, the sentence brings Oktar's punishment to 8,658 years. The court also gave similar years in prison to 10 other suspects, AFP reported.&nbsp;

The first verdict against Oktar and his mates was filed in January 2021 but was&nbsp;overruled by an upper court citing legal proof&nbsp;and ordering a retrial.&nbsp;This&nbsp;indictment against Oktar and his mates was presented in the court in September, accusing him of also running an armed organisation and exploiting the religious sentiments of many.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/century-of-turkey-vision-turkish-president-erdogan-wants-a-new-constitution-to-strengthen-law-and-equality-529772">Also read |&nbsp;'Century of Turkey Vision': Turkish President Erdogan wants a new constitution to strengthen law and equality&nbsp;</a>

Turkey's religious leaders and critics have been denouncing the leader of a cult, who gained&nbsp;popularity for his programmes on the online A9 television channels.&nbsp;

Oktar&nbsp;is also accused of collecting private data of high-profile names, from politicians, and actors to journalists.&nbsp;

The current sentence does not exceed the longest months prison sentence terms which was 9,803 years and six months, but still is one of the longest in the country and also in the world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Turkish court has given 8,658 years in prison to an Islamic televangelist and sex cult leader who surrounded himself with women wearing minimal clothes, whom he called "kittens.

A Turkish court has given 8,658 years in prison to an Islamic televangelist and sex cult leader who surrounded himself with women wearing minimal clothes, whom he called "kittens." Adnan Oktar,66, led television programmes of him surrounded by women wearing lots of makeup and little clothes to promote creationism and conservative rules, the Anadolu news agency reported. Also read | At least 7 killed, 18 injured after bus crash in eastern Turkey On Wednesday, the Istanbul court sentenced him to 891 years in prison for running a criminal organisation, sexual abuse, denial of education rights and illegal storage of personal data. In total, the sentence brings Oktar's punishment to 8,658 years. The court also gave similar years in prison to 10 other suspects, AFP reported. The first verdict against Oktar and his mates was filed in January 2021 but was overruled by an upper court citing legal proof and ordering a retrial. This indictment against Oktar and his mates was presented in the court in September, accusing him of also running an armed organisation and exploiting the religious sentiments of many. Also read | 'Century of Turkey Vision': Turkish President Erdogan wants a new constitution to strengthen law and equality Turkey's religious leaders and critics have been denouncing the leader of a cult, who gained popularity for his programmes on the online A9 television channels. Oktar is also accused of collecting private data of high-profile names, from politicians, and actors to journalists. The current sentence does not exceed the longest months prison sentence terms which was 9,803 years and six months, but still is one of the longest in the country and also in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Islamic televangelist and sex cult leader sentenced to 8,658 years in prison by Turkish court

Turkiye on Monday (November 14) rejected US condolences offered for the death of six people in a blast in Istanbul. Turkiye has blamed the blast on Kurdish militant group.&nbsp;

Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan often accuses the US of supplying weapons to Kurdish fighters in Syria. The Kurdish fighters have been deemed as 'terrorists' by Turkiye.

"We do not accept the US embassy's message of condolences. We reject it," Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said in televised comments.&nbsp;

Although Turkiye criticises US regularly, the timing of the latest rebuke has raised eyebrows as it was made just hours before G20 summit was to start in Bali, Indonesia. Erdogan and US President Joe Biden have already reached at the venue.

Erdogan has previously called the bombing a "vile attack" that had the "smell of terror".

A nine-year old girl and her father, as well as a 15-year-old girl and her mother were among those killed in the attack.

Istanbul police said Monday that 46 people had been detained in total.

Erdogan's government accused the PKK of carrying out the explosion shortly before the president landed in the Indonesian resort island of Bali for the G20 summit.

Police footage shared with Turkish media showed a young woman in a purple sweatshirt being apprehended in an Istanbul flat.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkiye on Monday (November 14) rejected US condolences offered for the death of six people in a blast in Istanbul. Turkiye has blamed the blast on Kurdish militant group.

Turkiye on Monday (November 14) rejected US condolences offered for the death of six people in a blast in Istanbul. Turkiye has blamed the blast on Kurdish militant group. Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan often accuses the US of supplying weapons to Kurdish fighters in Syria. The Kurdish fighters have been deemed as 'terrorists' by Turkiye. "We do not accept the US embassy's message of condolences. We reject it," Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said in televised comments. Although Turkiye criticises US regularly, the timing of the latest rebuke has raised eyebrows as it was made just hours before G20 summit was to start in Bali, Indonesia. Erdogan and US President Joe Biden have already reached at the venue. Erdogan has previously called the bombing a "vile attack" that had the "smell of terror". A nine-year old girl and her father, as well as a 15-year-old girl and her mother were among those killed in the attack. Istanbul police said Monday that 46 people had been detained in total. Erdogan's government accused the PKK of carrying out the explosion shortly before the president landed in the Indonesian resort island of Bali for the G20 summit. Police footage shared with Turkish media showed a young woman in a purple sweatshirt being apprehended in an Istanbul flat. (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 ×

Istanbul bombing: Turkiye 'rejects' US condolences hours before G20 summit

In response to an explosion that struck Istanbul's bustling Istiklal boulevard, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkey, claims that at least six people have died and 53 have been injured in a "heinous act."

Istanbul Blast: Explosion kills at least six, injures over 50

The 9th Summit of Organisation of Turkic states took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Friday. The leaders of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan attended the summit. The summit which was pegged on the them - New era for the Turkic civilisation - the leaders underlined the strong commitment to Turkic nations.

Summit of Organisation of Turkic States held in Samarkand; energy, regional stability tops agenda

On Monday, an accident in the eastern Turkish province of Agri killed at least seven and injured 18 people when a passenger bus rammed into two trucks and subsequently caught on fire, said the officials. According to Turkish Health Minister, Fahrettin Koca, two of the 18 injured are in serious condition after the accident.&nbsp;

The country’s president Tayyip Erdogan during his address also confirmed, “Seven of our citizens have lost their lives in a bus which caught fire after it overturned. I wish them God's mercy.” The local media reports indicated that after the collision there was heavy black smoke billowing from the scene. The fire was later extinguished after several firefighters rushed to the scene.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/century-of-turkey-vision-turkish-president-erdogan-wants-a-new-constitution-to-strengthen-law-and-equality-529772">'Century of Turkey Vision': Turkish President Erdogan wants a new constitution to strengthen law and equality&nbsp;</a>

The incident took place on the highway near the town of Tutak in Agri province which borders Iran and Armenia. According to the Agri province governor, Osman Varol, initial reports indicate that two trucks could have possibly collided, causing a pileup on the highway and dragging&nbsp;the bus with it. There were at least 22 people on the bus, said the local media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-mine-blast-president-tayyip-erdogan-visits-site-death-toll-rises-to-41-525708">Turkey mine blast: President Tayyip Erdogan visits site; death toll rises to 41</a>

This comes a day after another accident occurred in northern Turkey’s Bolu province on Sunday, which led to the death of three people and injured at least 32 others, said the country’s health minister. The passenger bus involved in the accident was from the Kamil Koc bus company which overturned on a major highway in the province, however, the cause of the accident was not immediately clear.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
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On Monday, an accident in the eastern Turkish province of Agri killed at least seven and injured 18 people when a passenger bus rammed into two trucks and subsequently caught on fire, said the officials.

On Monday, an accident in the eastern Turkish province of Agri killed at least seven and injured 18 people when a passenger bus rammed into two trucks and subsequently caught on fire, said the officials. According to Turkish Health Minister, Fahrettin Koca, two of the 18 injured are in serious condition after the accident. The country’s president Tayyip Erdogan during his address also confirmed, “Seven of our citizens have lost their lives in a bus which caught fire after it overturned. I wish them God's mercy.” The local media reports indicated that after the collision there was heavy black smoke billowing from the scene. The fire was later extinguished after several firefighters rushed to the scene. ALSO READ: 'Century of Turkey Vision': Turkish President Erdogan wants a new constitution to strengthen law and equality The incident took place on the highway near the town of Tutak in Agri province which borders Iran and Armenia. According to the Agri province governor, Osman Varol, initial reports indicate that two trucks could have possibly collided, causing a pileup on the highway and dragging the bus with it. There were at least 22 people on the bus, said the local media reports. ALSO READ: Turkey mine blast: President Tayyip Erdogan visits site; death toll rises to 41 This comes a day after another accident occurred in northern Turkey’s Bolu province on Sunday, which led to the death of three people and injured at least 32 others, said the country’s health minister. The passenger bus involved in the accident was from the Kamil Koc bus company which overturned on a major highway in the province, however, the cause of the accident was not immediately clear. (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.

At least 7 killed, 18 injured after bus crash in eastern Turkey

Turkish annual inflation climbed to a new 24-year high of 85.51% in October, official data showed on Thursday, slightly below forecast, after the central bank cut its policy rate despite surging prices.

Inflation has surged since last year, when the lira slumped after the central bank began cutting its policy rate in an easing cycle long sought by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In the last three months, the central bank slashed its policy rate by a total of 350 basis points to 10.5%. It promised another cut this month as the final move in the current easing cycle, running counter to the global monetary policy tightening trend.

Month-on-month, consumer prices rose 3.54%, the Turkish Statistical Institute said, below 3.60% forecast in a Reuters poll. Annually, consumer price inflation&nbsp;was forecast to be 85.60%.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-over-90-votes-counted-netanyahu-on-course-to-become-israel-pm-530821" hreflang="en">With over 90% votes counted, Netanyahu on course to become Israel PM</a>

The annual inflation in October was the highest since June 1998, when Turkiye was working to end a decade of high inflation.

Haluk Burumcekci, founder of Burumcekci Consulting, said the October print could be the peak for headline inflation if the lira does not weaken further.

"We think that the headline inflation may have seen its peak unless there is a depreciation from the lira's current level," he said. "A significant decline (in inflation) could only happen towards the 70-75% range due to the base effect in the last month of the year."

The lira's 44% decline last year and 29% this year was the main reason behind soaring inflation, in addition to surging energy prices.

Month-on-month clothing led the price rises with 8.34%, followed by food prices, which rose 5.09%, and furnishing and household equipment prices, which rose 4.38%.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-among-five-injured-after-firing-during-pti-rally-in-pakistan-530857">'Assassination attempt' on Imran Khan: Man fires shots, ex-Pakistan PM injured</a>&nbsp;

Transportation, which includes petrol prices, led the annual rise with 117.15%, followed by food prices at 99.05% and furniture and household equipment at 93.63%.

The median forecast for year-end inflation in the latest Reuters poll was 70.25%, while Turkiye's central bank raised its year-end forecast to 65.20% last week, its fourth upward revision this year.

The government's economic programme prioritises low rates to boost production and exports with the aim of achieving a current account surplus. The domestic producer price index was up 7.83% month-on-month in October for an annual rise of 157.69%.

Turkish annual inflation climbed to a new 24-year high of 85.51% in October, official data showed on Thursday, slightly below forecast, after the central bank cut its policy rate despite surging prices.

Turkish annual inflation climbed to a new 24-year high of 85.51% in October, official data showed on Thursday, slightly below forecast, after the central bank cut its policy rate despite surging prices. Inflation has surged since last year, when the lira slumped after the central bank began cutting its policy rate in an easing cycle long sought by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. In the last three months, the central bank slashed its policy rate by a total of 350 basis points to 10.5%. It promised another cut this month as the final move in the current easing cycle, running counter to the global monetary policy tightening trend. Month-on-month, consumer prices rose 3.54%, the Turkish Statistical Institute said, below 3.60% forecast in a Reuters poll. Annually, consumer price inflation was forecast to be 85.60%. Also read | With over 90% votes counted, Netanyahu on course to become Israel PM The annual inflation in October was the highest since June 1998, when Turkiye was working to end a decade of high inflation. Haluk Burumcekci, founder of Burumcekci Consulting, said the October print could be the peak for headline inflation if the lira does not weaken further. "We think that the headline inflation may have seen its peak unless there is a depreciation from the lira's current level," he said. "A significant decline (in inflation) could only happen towards the 70-75% range due to the base effect in the last month of the year." The lira's 44% decline last year and 29% this year was the main reason behind soaring inflation, in addition to surging energy prices. Month-on-month clothing led the price rises with 8.34%, followed by food prices, which rose 5.09%, and furnishing and household equipment prices, which rose 4.38%. Also read | 'Assassination attempt' on Imran Khan: Man fires shots, ex-Pakistan PM injured Transportation, which includes petrol prices, led the annual rise with 117.15%, followed by food prices at 99.05% and furniture and household equipment at 93.63%. The median forecast for year-end inflation in the latest Reuters poll was 70.25%, while Turkiye's central bank raised its year-end forecast to 65.20% last week, its fourth upward revision this year. The government's economic programme prioritises low rates to boost production and exports with the aim of achieving a current account surplus. The domestic producer price index was up 7.83% month-on-month in October for an annual rise of 157.69%.

Turkiye's inflation shoots up to a 24-year high of 85.5% after rate cuts

The threat of rising inflation is playing out pretty much every major European economy and in Turkey the inflation rates has accelerated to 85.51% in October. According to the official data this is the highest level since 1997.

Turkiye: Inflation hits 24-year high, tops 85%

In his recent Friday (October 28) speech, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan promised a new constitution that would guarantee the rights and freedoms of citizens.&nbsp;

He said, "The shelf life of the constitution of the Sept. 12 drafted after the military coup in 1980 has already expired, an&nbsp;He promised&nbsp;to&nbsp;strengthen law, pluralism and equality in the country with the new constitution.&nbsp;The leader further added that he's trying to save the country from the coup as the existing referendums do not prevent the country is not helping improve the situation of the citizens.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiyes-erdogan-proposes-vote-on-womens-right-to-wear-islamic-headscarf-527654">Also read |&nbsp;Turkiye's Erdogan proposes vote on women's right to wear Islamic headscarf</a>

Presented as his vision for the country's development, the speech was organised ahead of the upcoming June elections. During the speech, Erdogan announced the idea of&nbsp;"Century of Turkey Vision," ANI reported.

He said, "We want to make the 100th anniversary of our Republic the turning point of a new era that will change politics in Turkiye&nbsp;with its style, functioning and results." "Bringing a new constitution as a product of the national will is one of the first goals of our Century of Turkiye&nbsp;vision. We are determined to implement it with the approval of our parliament and the approval of our nation. It is the most fundamental right of our nation, which has paid the price of protecting its homeland for a thousand years, its Republic for a century, its democracy for 80 years, and its independence on July 15 (because of the failed coup attempt), to have such a constitution," he added.&nbsp;

However, under his rule, the autocratic rules under his leadership have severely declined.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-faces-outrage-in-turkiye-after-blaming-fate-for-amasra-mine-explosion-526109">Also read |&nbsp;Erdogan faces outrage in Turkiye after blaming 'fate' for Amasra mine explosion</a>

As per data from several world&nbsp;reports, the country&nbsp;has been mentioned among the weak nations when it comes to press freedom and gender equality.&nbsp;Such as Turkiye&nbsp;ranked 117 out of 139 nations as per

According to Word Justice Project Rule of Law 2021, Turkey ranked 117 out of 139 countries. The World Press Freedom Index 2022, ranked Turkiye&nbsp;at 149th out of 180 countries. In the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap report 2022, Turkey stood at the 124th position out of 146 nations.&nbsp;

The above-mentioned data clearly reveals that authoritarianism in the country is increasing and media freedom is declining rapidly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Turkiye's constitution was passed in 1982, with 19 amendments and three referendums under the ruling party AKP.&nbsp;

People in the country have been opposing Erdogan and his policies blaming him for the deteriorating situation in the country. The question that arises now is whether people will choose him again as the leader or whether will it have&nbsp;a new govt next year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In his recent Friday (October 28) speech, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan promised a new constitution that would guarantee the rights and freedoms of citizens.

In his recent Friday (October 28) speech, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan promised a new constitution that would guarantee the rights and freedoms of citizens. He said, "The shelf life of the constitution of the Sept. 12 drafted after the military coup in 1980 has already expired, an He promised to strengthen law, pluralism and equality in the country with the new constitution. The leader further added that he's trying to save the country from the coup as the existing referendums do not prevent the country is not helping improve the situation of the citizens. Also read | Turkiye's Erdogan proposes vote on women's right to wear Islamic headscarf Presented as his vision for the country's development, the speech was organised ahead of the upcoming June elections. During the speech, Erdogan announced the idea of "Century of Turkey Vision," ANI reported. He said, "We want to make the 100th anniversary of our Republic the turning point of a new era that will change politics in Turkiye with its style, functioning and results." "Bringing a new constitution as a product of the national will is one of the first goals of our Century of Turkiye vision. We are determined to implement it with the approval of our parliament and the approval of our nation. It is the most fundamental right of our nation, which has paid the price of protecting its homeland for a thousand years, its Republic for a century, its democracy for 80 years, and its independence on July 15 (because of the failed coup attempt), to have such a constitution," he added. However, under his rule, the autocratic rules under his leadership have severely declined. Also read | Erdogan faces outrage in Turkiye after blaming 'fate' for Amasra mine explosion As per data from several world reports, the country has been mentioned among the weak nations when it comes to press freedom and gender equality. Such as Turkiye ranked 117 out of 139 nations as per According to Word Justice Project Rule of Law 2021, Turkey ranked 117 out of 139 countries. The World Press Freedom Index 2022, ranked Turkiye at 149th out of 180 countries. In the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap report 2022, Turkey stood at the 124th position out of 146 nations. The above-mentioned data clearly reveals that authoritarianism in the country is increasing and media freedom is declining rapidly. Turkiye's constitution was passed in 1982, with 19 amendments and three referendums under the ruling party AKP. People in the country have been opposing Erdogan and his policies blaming him for the deteriorating situation in the country. The question that arises now is whether people will choose him again as the leader or whether will it have a new govt next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Century of Turkey Vision': Turkish President Erdogan wants a new constitution to strengthen law and equality 

Turkey secretly assisted Pakistan in creating a cyber-army to "shape public opinion" that was disguised under the bilateral agreement and utilised to attack India and the United States, says a Nordic Monitor report. It apparently also pursued internal political objectives to disprove criticism directed at Pakistan's leaders.&nbsp;

The report published on October 24 (Monday) noted that the proposal to create such a unit was initially brought up in private discussions between the then-interior minister of state Shehryar Khan Afridi and the visiting Turkish interior minister Suleyman Soylu on December 17, 2018.&nbsp;

The interior ministry in Islamabad held a senior-level discussion about the issue while keeping it a secret from the majority of the staff, the report stated, adding that the same day, during a meeting with Soylu, Imran Khan, the then-prime minister and interior minister, gave the proposal his approval as well.&nbsp;

This is not the first time a such report has surfaced, the first public admission of this clandestine operation was made by Soylu during an interview on October 13, 2022, with a local TV station in Kahramanmaras. &nbsp;

Although, he did not name the country, but made clear he was talking about Pakistan when he referred to a country that was a five or six-hour direct flight from Turkey.&nbsp;

As per the report, unlike his predecessors, Soylu has gained notoriety for running troll and bot armies in cyberspace on behalf of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;China's attempt to build semiconductor supply chains hindered&nbsp;

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He apparently had also worked on similar covert operations even before he became interior minister in September 2016.&nbsp;

The AKP set up teams to dominate social media in influence operations and attacks on critics. When he was deputy chairman of Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in 2014 with a research and development portfolio, Soylu secretly set up a large Twitter team to insult and target with offensive language prominent social and political figures who did not embrace the AKP's ideals and practices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Turkey secretly assisted Pakistan in creating a cyber-army to "shape public opinion" that was disguised under the bilateral agreement and utilised to attack India and the United States, says a Nordic Monitor report.

Turkey secretly assisted Pakistan in creating a cyber-army to "shape public opinion" that was disguised under the bilateral agreement and utilised to attack India and the United States, says a Nordic Monitor report. It apparently also pursued internal political objectives to disprove criticism directed at Pakistan's leaders. The report published on October 24 (Monday) noted that the proposal to create such a unit was initially brought up in private discussions between the then-interior minister of state Shehryar Khan Afridi and the visiting Turkish interior minister Suleyman Soylu on December 17, 2018. The interior ministry in Islamabad held a senior-level discussion about the issue while keeping it a secret from the majority of the staff, the report stated, adding that the same day, during a meeting with Soylu, Imran Khan, the then-prime minister and interior minister, gave the proposal his approval as well. This is not the first time a such report has surfaced, the first public admission of this clandestine operation was made by Soylu during an interview on October 13, 2022, with a local TV station in Kahramanmaras. Although, he did not name the country, but made clear he was talking about Pakistan when he referred to a country that was a five or six-hour direct flight from Turkey. As per the report, unlike his predecessors, Soylu has gained notoriety for running troll and bot armies in cyberspace on behalf of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. WATCH | China's attempt to build semiconductor supply chains hindered × He apparently had also worked on similar covert operations even before he became interior minister in September 2016. The AKP set up teams to dominate social media in influence operations and attacks on critics. When he was deputy chairman of Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in 2014 with a research and development portfolio, Soylu secretly set up a large Twitter team to insult and target with offensive language prominent social and political figures who did not embrace the AKP's ideals and practices. (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.

Did Turkey assist Pakistan in setting up a 'secret cyber army' to attack India and US?

Facebook parent company Meta has been slapped with a fine of USD 18 million by Turkey's competition authority for breaking competition laws. The authority said in a statement that Meta held a dominant position in personal social networking services and online video advertising and had obstructed competitors by merging data collected through its core services Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

Reuters quoted a Meta Platforms spokesperson as saying that the company disagrees with the findings and will consider all options. The competition authority has said that Meta must act to reinstate competition in these markets. It has also asked Meta to prepare annual reports about steps it will take for the next five years.

The authority said that the amount of the fine was based on company's 2021 income. Meta can object to the decision in 60 days.&nbsp;

In 2021, the competition authority launched an investigation into WhatsApp, and then Facebook Inc., after the messaging app asked users to agree to let Facebook collect user data such as phone numbers and locations, a change that was rolled out globally.

Analysts have said social media companies are unlikely to abide in full by the law, that requires them to remove such material and to share user data with authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Facebook parent company Meta has been slapped with a fine of USD 18 million by Turkey's competition authority for breaking competition laws. The authority said in a statement that Meta held a dominant position in personal social networking services and online video advertising and had obstructed competitors by merging data collected through its core services Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

Facebook parent company Meta has been slapped with a fine of USD 18 million by Turkey's competition authority for breaking competition laws. The authority said in a statement that Meta held a dominant position in personal social networking services and online video advertising and had obstructed competitors by merging data collected through its core services Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Reuters quoted a Meta Platforms spokesperson as saying that the company disagrees with the findings and will consider all options. The competition authority has said that Meta must act to reinstate competition in these markets. It has also asked Meta to prepare annual reports about steps it will take for the next five years. The authority said that the amount of the fine was based on company's 2021 income. Meta can object to the decision in 60 days. In 2021, the competition authority launched an investigation into WhatsApp, and then Facebook Inc., after the messaging app asked users to agree to let Facebook collect user data such as phone numbers and locations, a change that was rolled out globally. Analysts have said social media companies are unlikely to abide in full by the law, that requires them to remove such material and to share user data with authorities. (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 ×

Meta fined by Turkish competition board for violating laws, fined USD 18.6 million

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023's mini auction is set to be held in mid-December. As per the latest development, the Indian Premier League are preparing to take a big step in a bid to globalise their brand as the forthcoming auction can be held outside India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is aiming to take the auction outside, with Istanbul being a strong contender for the high-profile proceedings. Apart from Istanbul, Bengaluru is also being considered as another option. The city had also hosted the IPL 2022 mega auction.

As per a report in Cricbuzz, the newly-appointed IPL chairman Arun Dhamal has put ahead the option of taking the mini-auction to&nbsp;Turkey. The administrations of the board have been in talks with the 10 IPL franchises, however, a final call is yet to be out. A final decision is expected to be out in the first week of November.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-bcci-slams-icc-as-lack-of-hot-food-prompts-india-to-order-online-before-netherlands-tie-report-528432">T20 WC: BCCI slams ICC as lack of hot food prompts India to order online after practice session - Report</a>

Few years back, the BCCI was set to take the auction to London. However, there were resistance from the other IPL franchises back then which led to the discussion being out of the picture. In the current scenario, the situation has changed with a substantial increase in IPL&nbsp;revenue and media rights deal. Thus, it has forced the IPL franchises to consider the move of taking the auction out of India.&nbsp;

As per reports, the 10 IPL franchises have been given a deadline to submit their list of retained and released players by Novemebr 15. The players who won't be retained will get a chance to put his name in the IPL 2023 mini auction.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023's mini auction is set to be held in mid-December. As per the latest development, the Indian Premier League are preparing to take a big step in a bid to globalise their brand as the forthcoming auction can be held outside India.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023's mini auction is set to be held in mid-December. As per the latest development, the Indian Premier League are preparing to take a big step in a bid to globalise their brand as the forthcoming auction can be held outside India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is aiming to take the auction outside, with Istanbul being a strong contender for the high-profile proceedings. Apart from Istanbul, Bengaluru is also being considered as another option. The city had also hosted the IPL 2022 mega auction. As per a report in Cricbuzz, the newly-appointed IPL chairman Arun Dhamal has put ahead the option of taking the mini-auction to Turkey. The administrations of the board have been in talks with the 10 IPL franchises, however, a final call is yet to be out. A final decision is expected to be out in the first week of November. ALSO READ | T20 WC: BCCI slams ICC as lack of hot food prompts India to order online after practice session - Report Few years back, the BCCI was set to take the auction to London. However, there were resistance from the other IPL franchises back then which led to the discussion being out of the picture. In the current scenario, the situation has changed with a substantial increase in IPL revenue and media rights deal. Thus, it has forced the IPL franchises to consider the move of taking the auction out of India. As per reports, the 10 IPL franchises have been given a deadline to submit their list of retained and released players by Novemebr 15. The players who won't be retained will get a chance to put his name in the IPL 2023 mini auction.

Istanbul to host IPL 2023? BCCI set to announce venue by early November - Report

Hundreds of Syrian refugees apprehended by Turkey are being detained arbitrarily and returned to the chaos-ridden region of northern Syria, per a new report released by New York-based Human Rights Watch.&nbsp;

"In violation of international law, Turkish authorities have rounded up hundreds of Syrian refugees, even unaccompanied children, and forced them back to Syria," said Nadia Hardman, one of the researchers at the non-profit group.&nbsp;

The report, based on interviews with dozens of refugees added that most of them were subjected to extreme abuse and forced to sign documents that turned out to be&nbsp;voluntary repatriation agreements.&nbsp;

The NGO pointed fingers at the European Union for facilitating the 'harsh treatment' of refugees. Notably, the EU funds migration detention centres in Turkey, in exchange for reducing the flow of migrants to the continent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-german-chancellor-angela-merkel-received-unesco-peace-prize-for-accepting-refugees-509590">Read more:&nbsp;Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel receives UNESCO Peace Prize for accepting refugees</a>

Lately, Turkey has been in the news for all the wrong reasons related to the refugee crisis. As reported by WION, earlier this month, 92 migrants were allegedly forced to cross the Evros river from Turkey into Greece. They were later discovered virtually naked and beaten.

Greece, at the time, blamed Turkey for the incident and described it as a "shame on civilisation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syrian-refugees-from-lebanon-to-leave-for-syria-rights-group-express-doubt-over-repatriation-528162">WATCH |&nbsp;Syrian refugees from Lebanon to leave for Syria; Rights group express doubt over repatriation</a>

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Greek Minister of Civil Protection Takis Theodorikakos charged Turkey with "instrumentalising unlawful immigration."

Speaking to Skai Television, he claimed that many migrants told Frontex, the organisation in charge of monitoring EU borders, that "three Turkish army vehicles had transferred them" to the river, which serves as a natural boundary. The migrants were found with "visible injuries".

However, Ankara denied all the allegations as&nbsp;Fahrettin Altun, the top aide of Erdogan released a statement saying the accusations by Greece were false.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unhcr-deeply-distressed-by-reports-of-92-naked-migrants-at-greece-turkey-border-as-neighbours-exchange-blame-526002">Read more:&nbsp;UNHCR 'deeply distressed' by reports of 92 naked migrants at Greece-Turkey border as neighbours exchange blame</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Hundreds of Syrian refugees apprehended by Turkey are being detained arbitrarily and returned to the chaos-ridden region of northern Syria, per a new report released by New York-based Human Rights Watch.

Hundreds of Syrian refugees apprehended by Turkey are being detained arbitrarily and returned to the chaos-ridden region of northern Syria, per a new report released by New York-based Human Rights Watch. "In violation of international law, Turkish authorities have rounded up hundreds of Syrian refugees, even unaccompanied children, and forced them back to Syria," said Nadia Hardman, one of the researchers at the non-profit group. The report, based on interviews with dozens of refugees added that most of them were subjected to extreme abuse and forced to sign documents that turned out to be voluntary repatriation agreements. The NGO pointed fingers at the European Union for facilitating the 'harsh treatment' of refugees. Notably, the EU funds migration detention centres in Turkey, in exchange for reducing the flow of migrants to the continent. Read more: Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel receives UNESCO Peace Prize for accepting refugees Lately, Turkey has been in the news for all the wrong reasons related to the refugee crisis. As reported by WION, earlier this month, 92 migrants were allegedly forced to cross the Evros river from Turkey into Greece. They were later discovered virtually naked and beaten. Greece, at the time, blamed Turkey for the incident and described it as a "shame on civilisation." WATCH | Syrian refugees from Lebanon to leave for Syria; Rights group express doubt over repatriation × Greek Minister of Civil Protection Takis Theodorikakos charged Turkey with "instrumentalising unlawful immigration." Speaking to Skai Television, he claimed that many migrants told Frontex, the organisation in charge of monitoring EU borders, that "three Turkish army vehicles had transferred them" to the river, which serves as a natural boundary. The migrants were found with "visible injuries". However, Ankara denied all the allegations as Fahrettin Altun, the top aide of Erdogan released a statement saying the accusations by Greece were false. Read more: UNHCR 'deeply distressed' by reports of 92 naked migrants at Greece-Turkey border as neighbours exchange blame (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey subjecting Syrian refugees to torture before deporting them back: Report

A diplomatic storm is brewing between Turkey and Greece over migrants. 92 migrants were found without clothes along their border. The two are now trading barbs & accusing each other of being inhumane.

Gravitas: Greece and Turkey spar over migrants

A massive fire has broken out in a 24-storey skyscraper in Istanbul. The reports say that the bottom levels of the high-rise quickly caught on fire and rapidly spread to the top stories. Watch the video to know more details.

Istanbul: Fire breaks out in 24-storey skyscraper

After Pakistan summoned&nbsp;US envoy over Biden's 'one of most dangerous nations' remark, former PM Nawaz Sharif also jumped in the fray to defend his country.&nbsp;Sharif took to Twitter and stated that Pakistan's nuclear programme is not a threat to any country. In other news, Turkey&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited&nbsp;the ground zero of the blast and informed that&nbsp;41 had died.

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-nawaz-sharif-comes-to-pakistans-defence-after-bidens-remarks-525706">Former PM Nawaz Sharif comes to Pakistan's defence after Biden's remarks</a>

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has jumped in to defend his country after US President Joe Biden termed Pakistan a dangerous 'nuclear' nation.&nbsp;Sharif took to Twitter and stated that Pakistan's nuclear programme is not a threat to any country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/16/287978-sharid.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-mine-blast-president-tayyip-erdogan-visits-site-death-toll-rises-to-41-525708">Turkey mine blast: President Tayyip Erdogan visits site; death toll rises to 41</a>

After visiting the coal mine site in Turkey's northern Bartin province on Saturday (October 15), the nation's President Tayyip Erdogan stated that the death toll has reached 41 from a methane blast. Erdogan informed that a probe has been into the cause of the incident.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/15/303981-recep-tayyip-erdogan.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-host-sco-national-coordinators-meet-next-week-525710">India to host SCO national coordinators meet next week</a>

India is all set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) national coordinators meeting next week in Delhi. The meet will take place from October 17-18 and will be the first such national coordinator meet under the Indian presidency.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/12/278473-46zs2tsd55ndxkwus3hjhim6oy.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-chancellor-jeremy-hunt-acknowledges-mistakes-in-mini-budget-hints-at-tough-decisions-on-tax-and-spending-525604">New UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt accepts mistakes in 'mini-budget', hints at tough decisions on tax, spending</a>

UK's new chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who was appointed following Kwasi Kwarteng's dismissal Friday, has told Sky News that there "were mistakes" in Liz Truss and Kwarteng's mini-budget.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/15/303885-2022-10-14t162404z1lynxmpei9d0vvrtroptp4britain-politics.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-a-decade-after-the-split-rupert-murdoch-mulling-merging-fox-and-news-corp-again-525692">Nearly a decade after the split, Rupert Murdoch mulling merging Fox and News Corp again</a>

Business magnate Rupert Murdoch is mulling a proposal that may reunite his media empire viz.&nbsp;News Corp&nbsp;and Fox Corp., a little less than 10 years after they were split.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/43325-untitled%25252520design%25252520%25252875%252529-20180311061032.jpg" />&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-refuses-a-joint-investigation-team-with-germany-and-denmark-to-probe-nord-stream-explosions-525697">Sweden refuses joint investigation team with Germany, Denmark to probe Nord Stream explosions</a>

Days after refusing to share the findings of its probe into the explosions of Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines with Russian authorities, Sweden has also rejected plans to set up a joint investigation team with allies, citing national security.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/06/301559-untitled-design-41.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqs-sadrist-movement-refuses-to-join-new-government-525698">Iraq's Sadrist movement refuses to join new government, says it won't meet people's aspirations</a>

Moqtada Sadr's movement on Saturday announced that it won't join a new government that is being formed by Sudani, the news agency AFP reported. &nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/15/303974-moqtada-sadr.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-kill-us-and-we-want-to-live-says-former-ukraine-president-525666">'Putin wants to kill us and we want to live,' says former Ukraine President</a>

As the Russia-Ukraine war is nearing completion&nbsp;of its eighth month, former Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko said that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to erase Ukraine and those trying to find a compromise, should instead focus on negotiation.&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/01/29/82210-untitled-design-5.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-star-mason-greenwood-arrested-after-breaching-bail-conditions-in-alleged-assault-case-525675">Manchester United star Mason Greenwood arrested after breaching bail conditions in alleged assault case</a>

Manchester United star Mason Greenwood has been arrested for allegedly breaching his bail conditions. The England striker was arrested in January this year after being accused of rape and assault by his former girlfriend.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/15/303933-greenwood-man-utd.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-rings-of-power-finale-who-exactly-is-sauron-dark-lords-origin-explained-525645">'Rings of Power' finale: 'Who, exactly, is Sauron? Dark Lord's origin explained</a>

In the finale of 'Rings of Power' season 1, the identity of Dark Lord Sauron, which was earlier teased throughout the season, was&nbsp;finally revealed.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/15/303907-sauron-rings-of-power.jpg" />

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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After Pakistan summoned US envoy over Biden's 'one of most dangerous nations' remark, former PM Nawaz Sharif also jumped in the fray to defend his country. Sharif took to Twitter and stated that Pakistan's nuclear programme is not a threat to any country.

After Pakistan summoned US envoy over Biden's 'one of most dangerous nations' remark, former PM Nawaz Sharif also jumped in the fray to defend his country. Sharif took to Twitter and stated that Pakistan's nuclear programme is not a threat to any country. In other news, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the ground zero of the blast and informed that 41 had died. Click on headlines to read more: Former PM Nawaz Sharif comes to Pakistan's defence after Biden's remarks Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has jumped in to defend his country after US President Joe Biden termed Pakistan a dangerous 'nuclear' nation. Sharif took to Twitter and stated that Pakistan's nuclear programme is not a threat to any country. Turkey mine blast: President Tayyip Erdogan visits site; death toll rises to 41 After visiting the coal mine site in Turkey's northern Bartin province on Saturday (October 15), the nation's President Tayyip Erdogan stated that the death toll has reached 41 from a methane blast. Erdogan informed that a probe has been into the cause of the incident. India to host SCO national coordinators meet next week India is all set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) national coordinators meeting next week in Delhi. The meet will take place from October 17-18 and will be the first such national coordinator meet under the Indian presidency. New UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt accepts mistakes in 'mini-budget', hints at tough decisions on tax, spending UK's new chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who was appointed following Kwasi Kwarteng's dismissal Friday, has told Sky News that there "were mistakes" in Liz Truss and Kwarteng's mini-budget. Nearly a decade after the split, Rupert Murdoch mulling merging Fox and News Corp again Business magnate Rupert Murdoch is mulling a proposal that may reunite his media empire viz. News Corp and Fox Corp., a little less than 10 years after they were split. Sweden refuses joint investigation team with Germany, Denmark to probe Nord Stream explosions Days after refusing to share the findings of its probe into the explosions of Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines with Russian authorities, Sweden has also rejected plans to set up a joint investigation team with allies, citing national security. Iraq's Sadrist movement refuses to join new government, says it won't meet people's aspirations Moqtada Sadr's movement on Saturday announced that it won't join a new government that is being formed by Sudani, the news agency AFP reported. 'Putin wants to kill us and we want to live,' says former Ukraine President As the Russia-Ukraine war is nearing completion of its eighth month, former Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko said that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to erase Ukraine and those trying to find a compromise, should instead focus on negotiation. Manchester United star Mason Greenwood arrested after breaching bail conditions in alleged assault case Manchester United star Mason Greenwood has been arrested for allegedly breaching his bail conditions. The England striker was arrested in January this year after being accused of rape and assault by his former girlfriend. 'Rings of Power' finale: 'Who, exactly, is Sauron? Dark Lord's origin explained In the finale of 'Rings of Power' season 1, the identity of Dark Lord Sauron, which was earlier teased throughout the season, was finally revealed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news: Nawaz Sharif comes to Pakistan's defence, Erdogan visits mine blast site & more

After visiting the coal mine site in Turkey's northern Bartin province on Saturday (October 15), the nation's President Tayyip Erdogan stated that the death toll has reached 41 from a methane blast. Erdogan informed that a probe has been into the cause of the incident.&nbsp;

Search and rescue members had been working to pull out miners trapped underground after a blast ripped through the mine near the small coal mining town of Amasra on Turkey's Black Sea coast on Friday. But on Saturday, the body of the last missing person was found.&nbsp;

Erdogan said, "Our priority was to find the miners in the gallery. We finally reached the last one. He also died, bringing the number of deaths to 41." &nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cambodian-boat-accident-kills-11-three-including-15-year-old-boat-operator-detained-525627">Cambodian boat accident kills 11: Three, including 15-year-old boat operator, detained</a>&nbsp;

"The reasons of this explosion and the people responsible for it, if any, will be revealed with an administrative and judicial investigation,"&nbsp;Erdogan said.&nbsp;

"These investigations have already been initiated in a multifaceted manner. Our priority was to reach the workers trapped underground. We have finally taken out the 41st&nbsp;miner," he added.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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"There was such dense dust and smoke that I did not see anything like that in my life. The dust was so dense, I couldn't see any ahead even with the lamp," a miner was quoted as saying in a Reuters report.&nbsp;

Previously, the country's Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said 58 miners had survived the blast, "either by themselves or thanks to rescuers".&nbsp;

One miner was discharged from the hospital while 10 were still receiving treatment in Bartin and Istanbul, Soylu said.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

After visiting the coal mine site in Turkey's northern Bartin province on Saturday (October 15), the nation's President Tayyip Erdogan stated that the death toll has reached 41 from a methane blast.

After visiting the coal mine site in Turkey's northern Bartin province on Saturday (October 15), the nation's President Tayyip Erdogan stated that the death toll has reached 41 from a methane blast. Erdogan informed that a probe has been into the cause of the incident. Search and rescue members had been working to pull out miners trapped underground after a blast ripped through the mine near the small coal mining town of Amasra on Turkey's Black Sea coast on Friday. But on Saturday, the body of the last missing person was found. Erdogan said, "Our priority was to find the miners in the gallery. We finally reached the last one. He also died, bringing the number of deaths to 41." ALSO READ | Cambodian boat accident kills 11: Three, including 15-year-old boat operator, detained "The reasons of this explosion and the people responsible for it, if any, will be revealed with an administrative and judicial investigation," Erdogan said. "These investigations have already been initiated in a multifaceted manner. Our priority was to reach the workers trapped underground. We have finally taken out the 41st miner," he added. Watch this report: × "There was such dense dust and smoke that I did not see anything like that in my life. The dust was so dense, I couldn't see any ahead even with the lamp," a miner was quoted as saying in a Reuters report. Previously, the country's Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said 58 miners had survived the blast, "either by themselves or thanks to rescuers". One miner was discharged from the hospital while 10 were still receiving treatment in Bartin and Istanbul, Soylu said. 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 mine blast: President Tayyip Erdogan visits site; death toll rises to 41

The death toll in the Turkiye mine blast has risen to 40, Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said on Saturday, adding that search and rescue operations were continuing for one missing miner. The blast apparently took place because of a methane gas build-up. The trapped miners were trapped hundreds of metres below ground.

He added that 58 of the 110 people working in the mine were rescued by the teams or got out by themselves, adding there was uncertainty about one miner.

"There is still a fire going on there, miners and teams have made great sacrifices not to leave their brothers there," Soylu said at the mine.

He also informed that the fire in the mine was largely contained but fire isolation and cooling efforts were still on. The incident took place 350 metres (0.2 miles) below ground.

"In all, 110 of our brothers were working (underground). Some of them came out on their own, and some of them were rescued," Soylu said.

Talking about the status of those injured, Soylu said one miner was discharged from hospital while 10 were still receiving treatment in Bartin and Istanbul.

Authorities said Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.

Images on TV showed anxious crowds gathering at the mine -- some with tears in their eyes -- in search of their loved ones.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was expected to fly to the scene of the accident on Saturday.&nbsp;

Most initial information about those trapped inside was coming from workers who had managed to climb out relatively unharmed.&nbsp;

Amasra mayor Recai Cakir said many of those who survived had also suffered "serious injuries".&nbsp;

The blast took place moments before sunset and hence the darkness was impeding the rescue effort. Turkey's Maden-Is mining workers' union attributed the blast to a build-up of methane gas.&nbsp;

However, officials were quoted in media reports saying that it was premature to predict what caused the accident.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-govt-introduces-new-law-for-journalists-and-social-media-to-avoid-spread-of-fake-news-525410">Türkiye: Govt introduces new law for journalists and social media to curb spread of 'fake news'</a>

Rescuers sent in reinforcements from surrounding villages to help search for signs of life. 
 
Television images showed paramedics giving oxygen to the miners who had climbed out and then rushing them to the nearest hospitals.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The death toll in the Turkiye mine blast has risen to 40, Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said on Saturday, adding that search and rescue operations were continuing for one missing miner.

The death toll in the Turkiye mine blast has risen to 40, Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said on Saturday, adding that search and rescue operations were continuing for one missing miner. The blast apparently took place because of a methane gas build-up. The trapped miners were trapped hundreds of metres below ground. He added that 58 of the 110 people working in the mine were rescued by the teams or got out by themselves, adding there was uncertainty about one miner. "There is still a fire going on there, miners and teams have made great sacrifices not to leave their brothers there," Soylu said at the mine. He also informed that the fire in the mine was largely contained but fire isolation and cooling efforts were still on. The incident took place 350 metres (0.2 miles) below ground. "In all, 110 of our brothers were working (underground). Some of them came out on their own, and some of them were rescued," Soylu said. Talking about the status of those injured, Soylu said one miner was discharged from hospital while 10 were still receiving treatment in Bartin and Istanbul. Authorities said Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident. Images on TV showed anxious crowds gathering at the mine -- some with tears in their eyes -- in search of their loved ones. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was expected to fly to the scene of the accident on Saturday. Most initial information about those trapped inside was coming from workers who had managed to climb out relatively unharmed. Amasra mayor Recai Cakir said many of those who survived had also suffered "serious injuries". The blast took place moments before sunset and hence the darkness was impeding the rescue effort. Turkey's Maden-Is mining workers' union attributed the blast to a build-up of methane gas. However, officials were quoted in media reports saying that it was premature to predict what caused the accident. Also Read | Türkiye: Govt introduces new law for journalists and social media to curb spread of 'fake news' Rescuers sent in reinforcements from surrounding villages to help search for signs of life. Television images showed paramedics giving oxygen to the miners who had climbed out and then rushing them to the nearest hospitals. (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 ×

Türkiye mine blast toll rises to 40, one miner still missing, investigation launched

On Thursday (October 14), Türkiye's parliament passed a tough law for reporters and social media entailing imprisonment of up to three years for spreading "false news".

The law imposes a criminal penalty for those who are held on charges. The law allows the court to sentence journalists and social media users to up to three years in jail.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-fake-profiles-of-women-ukrainian-hackers-duped-russian-soldiers-to-help-military-report-513399">Also read |&nbsp;Using fake profiles of women, Ukrainian hackers duped Russian soldiers to help military: Report</a>

The ruling party aims to strengthen its grip on the media ahead of the elections. The Council of Europe said that the definition of "disinformation" in the law can lead to increased self-censorship and some severe effects.

The legislation had 40 amendments. The ruling party, AKP, suggested voting separately.

However, it was highly criticised by the opposition. In order to show how freedom of expression is being crushed, especially for youngsters, an opposition lawmaker in parliament smashed his phone with a hammer.&nbsp;

After smashing his phone, Burak Erbay, the CHP lawmaker, said ahead of the vote, "I would like to address my brothers who are 15, 16,&nbsp;17 years old and who will be deciding the fate of Türkiye in 2023. You have only one freedom left -- the phone in your pocket. There's Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. You communicate there." He added that if this law passes, they all can smash their phones like this, reported AFP.&nbsp;

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Burak Erbay, a Turkish opposition lawmaker, destroyed a smartphone during his speech in parliament to protest a proposed disinformation and social media bill <a href="https://t.co/robiV2iDP5">pic.twitter.com/robiV2iDP5</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-news-china-denies-that-president-jinping-invited-european-leaders-for-meeting-in-beijing-498807">Also read |&nbsp;'Fake news': China denies that President Xi Jinping invited European leaders for meeting in Beijing</a>

In Türkiye, most of the newspapers and media channels fall under the control of the government. However, most social media networks don't. To change this, the Recep Tayyip Erdogan administration started imposing heavy penalties on big media platforms to comply with local representatives, who can later take down contentious posts.

According to Tayyip, social media is one of the main threats to the country's democracy. He stated that social media is a highly polarised society in Türkiye, making it vulnerable to the spread of false and misleading information.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Thursday (October 14), Türkiye's parliament passed a tough law for reporters and social media entailing imprisonment of up to three years for spreading "false news".

On Thursday (October 14), Türkiye's parliament passed a tough law for reporters and social media entailing imprisonment of up to three years for spreading "false news". The law imposes a criminal penalty for those who are held on charges. The law allows the court to sentence journalists and social media users to up to three years in jail. Also read | Using fake profiles of women, Ukrainian hackers duped Russian soldiers to help military: Report The ruling party aims to strengthen its grip on the media ahead of the elections. The Council of Europe said that the definition of "disinformation" in the law can lead to increased self-censorship and some severe effects. The legislation had 40 amendments. The ruling party, AKP, suggested voting separately. However, it was highly criticised by the opposition. In order to show how freedom of expression is being crushed, especially for youngsters, an opposition lawmaker in parliament smashed his phone with a hammer. After smashing his phone, Burak Erbay, the CHP lawmaker, said ahead of the vote, "I would like to address my brothers who are 15, 16, 17 years old and who will be deciding the fate of Türkiye in 2023. You have only one freedom left -- the phone in your pocket. There's Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. You communicate there." He added that if this law passes, they all can smash their phones like this, reported AFP. Burak Erbay, a Turkish opposition lawmaker, destroyed a smartphone during his speech in parliament to protest a proposed disinformation and social media bill pic.twitter.com/robiV2iDP5 — Reuters (@Reuters) October 13, 2022 × Also read | 'Fake news': China denies that President Xi Jinping invited European leaders for meeting in Beijing In Türkiye, most of the newspapers and media channels fall under the control of the government. However, most social media networks don't. To change this, the Recep Tayyip Erdogan administration started imposing heavy penalties on big media platforms to comply with local representatives, who can later take down contentious posts. According to Tayyip, social media is one of the main threats to the country's democracy. He stated that social media is a highly polarised society in Türkiye, making it vulnerable to the spread of false and misleading information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Türkiye: Govt introduces new law for journalists and social media to curb spread of 'fake news'

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish president Tayyip Erdogan held bilateral talks in Kazakhstan's Astana. During the meeting, Putin proposed to Erdogan that Moscow could export more gas via Turkey and turn it into a new supply hub.

Astana Summit 2022: Putin, Erdogan meet in Kazakhstan, hold bilateral talks

Turkish parliament on Thursday approved a new media law that could see individuals sentenced to up to three years in prison for spreading "fake news" or "misinformation".

Turkiye passes new law imposing jail terms for 'misinformation' and 'fake news'

A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"The Turks are offering their mediation. If any talks take place, then most likely they will be on their territory: in Istanbul or Ankara," Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Moscow.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Erdogan "will probably propose something officially," he continued, at their Thursday discussions in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. 
&nbsp; 
Turkey, a NATO member that has maintained its neutral stance throughout the Ukrainian war, enjoys cordial ties with both of its Black Sea neighbours, Russia and Ukraine, and has abstained from supporting Western sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"Turkey on principle does not join the illegal sanctions of the West. And this position of Turkey gives an additional impetus for the expansion of trade and economic cooperation," Ushakov said. 
&nbsp; 
In March, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and his Ukrainian colleague Dmytro Kuleba met in person for the first high-level discussions to take place since Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine. Turkey has previously served as the venue for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. 
&nbsp; 
Peace talks have subsequently stopped, and when the Kremlin said that it had seized four Ukrainian provinces, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared he would not have discussions with Putin.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intensifies-security-ahead-of-20th-ccp-congress-arrests-over-14-million-criminals-524783">China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’</a> 
&nbsp; 
Ushakov told reporters when asked about Zelensky's promise, "I would like to tell him: never say never."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
With Moscow and Kyiv, Turkey and the UN-mediated a historic agreement that set aside three ports for Ukraine to deliver desperately needed food supplies over a Russian embargo.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
However, Russia has criticised the agreement, stating that its own exports had suffered and asserting without supporting data that the majority of supply was made to Europe rather than to developing nations where grain was most needed. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan.

A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan. "The Turks are offering their mediation. If any talks take place, then most likely they will be on their territory: in Istanbul or Ankara," Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Moscow. Erdogan "will probably propose something officially," he continued, at their Thursday discussions in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Turkey, a NATO member that has maintained its neutral stance throughout the Ukrainian war, enjoys cordial ties with both of its Black Sea neighbours, Russia and Ukraine, and has abstained from supporting Western sanctions on Moscow. "Turkey on principle does not join the illegal sanctions of the West. And this position of Turkey gives an additional impetus for the expansion of trade and economic cooperation," Ushakov said. In March, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and his Ukrainian colleague Dmytro Kuleba met in person for the first high-level discussions to take place since Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine. Turkey has previously served as the venue for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. Peace talks have subsequently stopped, and when the Kremlin said that it had seized four Ukrainian provinces, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared he would not have discussions with Putin. Also Read: China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’ Ushakov told reporters when asked about Zelensky's promise, "I would like to tell him: never say never." With Moscow and Kyiv, Turkey and the UN-mediated a historic agreement that set aside three ports for Ukraine to deliver desperately needed food supplies over a Russian embargo. However, Russia has criticised the agreement, stating that its own exports had suffered and asserting without supporting data that the majority of supply was made to Europe rather than to developing nations where grain was most needed. (with inputs from agencies)

Moscow believes Turkish president Erdogan will 'officially' offer Ukraine mediation

According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq.

Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised." It further stated that more causalities are anticipated during the expedition in the Asos region of northern Iraq, which is governed by the independent Kurdistan Regional Government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-refuses-to-ratify-sweden-and-finlands-nato-membership-bid-521606">Also read |&nbsp;Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid</a>

The Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar, in a statement on Thursday, said that airstrikes had hit 16 targets in the Asos region.

Since 2019, Turkey has carried out several operations in northern Iraq, claiming that the military is targeting the Kurdistan Worker's Party, or PKK, to restrain it from launching assaults across the border into Turkey.

A joint effort, "Operation Claw-Lock," between ground and air forces, was started in April. Since 1984, the PKK has been engaged in an intermittent insurgency against the Turkish government, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-and-turkey-pushing-back-afghan-refugees-violating-international-law-says-amnesty-511623">Also read |&nbsp;Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty</a>

Turkey, along with the United States and the European Union, has designated the group as a "terrorist" organisation. In response to the death of a Turkish police officer in a missile assault on Sunday, the defence ministry later&nbsp;claimed that seven terrorists have been neutralised in northern Syria.

As per official claims, Kurdish militants from the People's Protection Units, or YPG, attacked a Turkish base close to Al Bab.

Despite having ties to the PKK and participating in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State, the YPG has not been regarded as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union till now.

(With inputs from agencies)

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According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq. Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised.

According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, Turkish warplanes "neutralised" 23 Kurdish militants who were killed during 140 kilometres (90 miles) in Iraq. Whenever a militant is killed, the ministry uses the term "neutralised." It further stated that more causalities are anticipated during the expedition in the Asos region of northern Iraq, which is governed by the independent Kurdistan Regional Government. Also read | Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid The Defence Minister, Hulusi Akar, in a statement on Thursday, said that airstrikes had hit 16 targets in the Asos region. Since 2019, Turkey has carried out several operations in northern Iraq, claiming that the military is targeting the Kurdistan Worker's Party, or PKK, to restrain it from launching assaults across the border into Turkey. A joint effort, "Operation Claw-Lock," between ground and air forces, was started in April. Since 1984, the PKK has been engaged in an intermittent insurgency against the Turkish government, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people. Also read | Iran and Turkey pushing back Afghan refugees, violating international law, says Amnesty Turkey, along with the United States and the European Union, has designated the group as a "terrorist" organisation. In response to the death of a Turkish police officer in a missile assault on Sunday, the defence ministry later claimed that seven terrorists have been neutralised in northern Syria. As per official claims, Kurdish militants from the People's Protection Units, or YPG, attacked a Turkish base close to Al Bab. Despite having ties to the PKK and participating in the US-led campaign against the Islamic State, the YPG has not been regarded as a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union till now. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkish warplanes 'neutralises' 23 Kurdish militants in Iraq

Erdogan has yet again warned Sweden and Finland. He has threatened that he may not ratify the NATO membership bids of the two Nordic nations until the promises given to Ankara were met.

Erdogan renews threat to block Swedish, Finnish NATO bids

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday trained guns on Sweden and Finland once again regarding NATO membership and said Ankara continues to maintain its principle position.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday trained guns on Sweden and Finland once again regarding NATO membership and said Ankara continues to maintain its principle position. Erdogan threatened that he may not ratify the NATO membership bids of the two Nordic nations until the promises given to Ankara were met. "Until the promises made to our country are kept, we will maintain our principled position," said Erdogan in the country's parliament. "We are closely following whether the promises made by Sweden and Finland are kept or not, and of course, the final decision will be up to our great parliament," he added in the speech. Erdogan continues to denounce Finland and Sweden for providing a safe haven to Kurdish 'terrorists'. The Turkish leader is also cross with the Nordic countries for imposing an arms embargo on Ankara after Turkey's intervention in the Syrian conflict in 2019. However, in June, the three countries struck a deal where Turkey said it will seek extradition of 33 suspects from Finland and Sweden, in lieu of ratifying their NATO signing documents. Read more: NATO bid: Turkey strikes deal with Finland, Sweden over Kurdish militants However, Erdogan's statement on Saturday suggests that both Sweden and Finland had failed to make do on their promises. Both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year. As reported by WION, Sweden and Finland need NATO allies to sign the ratification to complete the formal joining process. The accession will only be complete after all 30 NATO allies have signed the form. So far, 28 out of 30 countries have signed the document. Only Turkey and Hungary are yet to put pen to paper. Read more: Joe Biden signs documents supporting Sweden and Finland's bid to join NATO Prior to the invasion, Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and contravenes assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. “We don’t have problems with Sweden and Finland like we do with Ukraine. If Finland and Sweden wish to, they can join. That’s up to them. They can join whatever they want,” said Putin. However, the Russian President warned that "if military contingents and military infrastructure were deployed there, we would be obliged to respond symmetrically and raise the same threats for those territories where threats have arisen for us”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey refuses to ratify Sweden and Finland's NATO membership bid

Tech giant Oracle has been fined $23 million by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for breaking the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). The punishment was issued for funnelling money to corrupt officials in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and India.

World Business Watch: SEC fines Oracle $23 mn for bribing officials in India, Turkey, and UAE

Tech giant Oracle has been fined $23 million by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for breaking the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). The punishment was issued for funnelling money to corrupt officials in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and India.&nbsp;

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) was allegedly violated by Oracle Corporation when subsidiaries in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and India created and used slush funds to bribe foreign officials in exchange for business between 2016 and 2019, according to a statement released by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday. Oracle Corporation was ordered to pay more than $23 million to resolve the charges.

In contravention of Oracle norms and procedures, the SEC's order claims that Oracle subsidiaries in Turkey and the UAE also utilised the slush funds to pay for foreign officials to attend technology conferences. According to the order, workers of the Turkey subsidiary occasionally utilised this cash to pay for the officials' families to go to California or accompany them on side excursions to international conferences.&nbsp;

“The SEC previously sanctioned Oracle in connection with the creation of slush funds. In 2012, Oracle resolved charges relating to the creation of millions of dollars of side funds by Oracle India, which created the risk that those funds could be used for illicit purposes," the statement said.

The establishment of off-book slush funds obviously increases the chance that those monies may be misused, which is precisely what occurred at Oracle's Turkey, UAE, and India subsidiaries, according to Charles Cain, head of the SEC's FCPA branch. This situation emphasises how important it is for a corporation to have efficient internal accounting controls throughout every aspect of its operations.&nbsp;

Oracle consented to pay a $15 million fine, nearly $8 million in disgorgement, and to cease and desist from violating the FCPA's anti-bribery, books and records, and internal accounting controls requirements without acknowledging or disputing the SEC's findings.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Tech giant Oracle has been fined $23 million by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for breaking the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). The punishment was issued for funnelling money to corrupt officials in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and India. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) was allegedly violated by Oracle Corporation when subsidiaries in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and India created and used slush funds to bribe foreign officials in exchange for business between 2016 and 2019, according to a statement released by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday. Oracle Corporation was ordered to pay more than $23 million to resolve the charges. In contravention of Oracle norms and procedures, the SEC's order claims that Oracle subsidiaries in Turkey and the UAE also utilised the slush funds to pay for foreign officials to attend technology conferences. According to the order, workers of the Turkey subsidiary occasionally utilised this cash to pay for the officials' families to go to California or accompany them on side excursions to international conferences. “The SEC previously sanctioned Oracle in connection with the creation of slush funds. In 2012, Oracle resolved charges relating to the creation of millions of dollars of side funds by Oracle India, which created the risk that those funds could be used for illicit purposes," the statement said. The establishment of off-book slush funds obviously increases the chance that those monies may be misused, which is precisely what occurred at Oracle's Turkey, UAE, and India subsidiaries, according to Charles Cain, head of the SEC's FCPA branch. This situation emphasises how important it is for a corporation to have efficient internal accounting controls throughout every aspect of its operations. Oracle consented to pay a $15 million fine, nearly $8 million in disgorgement, and to cease and desist from violating the FCPA's anti-bribery, books and records, and internal accounting controls requirements without acknowledging or disputing the SEC's findings. (with inputs from agencies)

$23 mn fine imposed on tech giant Oracle for bribing officials in Turkey, UAE and India

Foreign armies in Syria and how they came to be there

Azerbaijan forces started shelling on Armenian territory killing at least 49 Armenian soldiers. Turkiye firmly sided with Azerbaijan telling Armenia to "cease its provocations" against Baku.

Armenia-Azerbaijan border clash: Turkiye backs Azerbaijan, accuses Armenia of 'provocation'

Turkish social media app Havrita “Bark Map” that locates stray dogs has stirred up controversy after it led to an increase in people hunting down & poisoning the animals.

Why 'Bark Map' App which locates stray dogs is stirring up controversy in Turkiye

Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has voiced his displeasure towards what he called the West's 'provocative' policies towards Russia. Erdogan's comment has come just when the European Union is thinking about a price cap on Russian gas.

Russia is a major supplier of natural gas to Europe and has been leveraging its position to exert political pressure on the continent in light of the Ukraine war. The EU has already imposed economic sanctions on Russia.

In order to cut Russia's revenue source, European countries are planning on a price cap on Russian gas.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reacted angrily and has threatened 'no oil, no gas' to any country that decides to put price cap on Russian energy products. He was speaking at Eastern Economic Forum in Russia's far-east city Vladivostok.

Putin has also threatened a relook at the Ukrainian grain export deal. He said that he would contact Turkish President Erdogan to discuss amendment to the deal to decide which countries can receive grain shipments.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-no-gas-no-oil-in-case-prices-are-capped-513740">Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' in case prices are capped</a>

Ukraine is a major producer of grains and stoppage of grain exports has been said to potentially cause a global food crisis.

Deal to allow Ukrainian grain shipments to reach other countries was struck in July. Turkey and the United Nations had brokered the deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has voiced his displeasure towards what he called the West's 'provocative' policies towards Russia. Erdogan's comment has come just when the European Union is thinking about a price cap on Russian gas.

Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has voiced his displeasure towards what he called the West's 'provocative' policies towards Russia. Erdogan's comment has come just when the European Union is thinking about a price cap on Russian gas. Russia is a major supplier of natural gas to Europe and has been leveraging its position to exert political pressure on the continent in light of the Ukraine war. The EU has already imposed economic sanctions on Russia. In order to cut Russia's revenue source, European countries are planning on a price cap on Russian gas. Russian President Vladimir Putin has reacted angrily and has threatened 'no oil, no gas' to any country that decides to put price cap on Russian energy products. He was speaking at Eastern Economic Forum in Russia's far-east city Vladivostok. Putin has also threatened a relook at the Ukrainian grain export deal. He said that he would contact Turkish President Erdogan to discuss amendment to the deal to decide which countries can receive grain shipments. Also Read | Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' in case prices are capped Ukraine is a major producer of grains and stoppage of grain exports has been said to potentially cause a global food crisis. Deal to allow Ukrainian grain shipments to reach other countries was struck in July. Turkey and the United Nations had brokered the deal. (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 calls Western policies towards Russia 'provocative', Putin threatens relook at grain deal

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