More than 200 people suspected of links to the Islamic State (IS) and far-left militant groups were arrested today (June 23, 2026) in Ankara — two weeks before the NATO summit scheduled to take place in the Turkish capital. According to Ankara’s public prosecutor’s office, 209 individuals were detained and 32 others remain at large as authorities intensify security measures ahead of the high-profile gathering of allied leaders.
Targets Include Militant and Human Rights Groups
Of those detained, approximately 185 are accused of ties to various far-left organizations designated as terrorist entities by the Turkish government — including the Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party–Front (DHKP-C), a Marxist-Leninist group that has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in Turkey over the years.
The Progressive Lawyers’ Association (CHD), a group frequently targeted by Turkish authorities, confirmed that two of its members were arrested in Ankara. A third lawyer was detained in Istanbul, the association added.
Arrest of Journalist Draws International Condemnation
Yıldız Tar, editor-in-chief of the LGBTIQ+ magazine Kaos GL, was also taken into custody during this wave of arrests, according to the Turkish NGO Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA). Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned his detention as “arbitrary” and “unacceptable,” calling for his immediate release.
Protest Ban Imposed Ahead of Summit
Ankara’s governorate announced late yesterday that all demonstrations will be banned from June 28 through the conclusion of the NATO summit — set for July 7–8 in the capital. The event is expected to bring together heads of state and government from all 32 NATO member countries, including U.S. President Donald Trump.