Mass Protests Erupt in Turkey Following Arrest of Istanbul Mayor

Israel has resumed large-scale military operations in the Gaza Strip, marking a sharp escalation in its ongoing conflict with Hamas. This development comes just weeks after a fragile two-month ceasefire collapsed in mid-March, reigniting violence in the region.

Overview

Turkey is witnessing its most significant wave of anti-government protests in over a decade, ignited by the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on March 19, 2025. İmamoğlu, a leading opposition figure from the Republican People's Party (CHP), was detained on charges of corruption and alleged links to the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Many analysts and citizens believe these charges are politically motivated, aimed at sidelining President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s strongest political rival.

Protests and Public Response

The arrest has triggered nationwide demonstrations, uniting a diverse coalition of citizens — from leftists and ultra-nationalists to students and retirees — all rallying against Erdoğan’s increasingly authoritarian leadership. Protesters share a common concern: the erosion of democratic institutions and secular values in Turkey.

Student-led initiatives have included consumer boycotts targeting businesses aligned with the ruling party. The CHP has supported these efforts, hoping to apply economic pressure on the government. In response, authorities have detained dozens of boycott organizers, accusing them of inciting public unrest.

Government Crackdown

The government’s reaction has been swift and forceful. Over 2,000 individuals have been arrested since the protests began, with reports emerging of poor prison conditions and mistreatment. Despite growing criticism, the Turkish government insists that its judiciary is independent and denies any political interference in the legal proceedings.

Opposition's Stance

CHP leader Özgür Özel has publicly denounced İmamoğlu’s arrest as a “politically motivated coup”, announcing a campaign of weekly protests demanding early elections. With polls showing growing support for the opposition, many believe a snap election could potentially unseat Erdoğan after over two decades in power.