EU to sign defence pacts with Australia, Iceland and Ghana in ‘coming days’
The EU has signed a series of new bilateral defence pacts, but critics say they are more about symbolism than policy detail. [Continue Reading]
Ekrem Imamoglu on trial for corruption charges amid claims of political motivation against his potential presidential candidacy
Ekrem Imamoglu, the former mayor of Istanbul, is currently on trial for corruption charges that have been widely characterized as politically motivated. This trial, which has garnered international attention, is viewed by many as part of a broader effort to undermine Imamoglu's political influence and potential candidacy against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Imamoglu's arrest occurred nearly one year ago when he was formally selected as the presidential candidate for the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). The case against Imamoglu has drawn criticism from numerous rights organizations that argue the accusations lack substantive evidence and reflect a system skewed against political... [Continue Reading]
Jailed Istanbul mayor goes on trial in corruption case slammed as political
Istanbul's former mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has gone on trial in Turkey on charges of corruption, in a landmark case widely criticised by rights groups. Imamoglu was arrested almost one year ago, when the opposition CHP party named him as their presidential candidate. Critics say the trial is an attempt to scupper Imamoglu's chances of beating Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the ballot box. [Continue Reading]
Kurdish Iraq draws a line: Erbil warns against attacks on Iran from Kurdish territory
In Iraq, Kurdish authorities are warning that their territory must not be used as a launchpad for attacks on Iran. Kurdish Iranian dissident groups say they will not act independently, but could potentially join a US ground invasion. Iran has already carried out several missile and drone strikes on Kurdish bases, escalating tensions in the area. On Friday, Iranian drones were shot down over Erbil in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region. Nicholas Rushworth reports. [Continue Reading]
