📰 Bianet · 54
TRTurkey blocks access to Change.org
Change.org, a global petition platform, has been blocked in Turkey after a court decision by the Kula Penal Court of First Instance on June 17, 2026. The Freedom of Expression Association (İFÖD) reported the block, though the specific reason for the restriction was not disclosed. This follows a trend of increasing internet censorship in Turkey, with over 300,000 websites blocked in 2024.
Kurdish politician Ayşe Gökkan sentenced to over 19 years in prison
Ayşe Gökkan, a Kurdish politician and former spokesperson for the Free Women’s Movement (TJA), was sentenced to 19 years and six months in prison by the Diyarbakır 9th Heavy Penal Court on charges of being a member of a terrorist organization. The sentencing occurred during the fifth hearing of her retrial, which she attended via videoconference from prison. Gökkan defended herself in Kurdish, stating that the trial targeted her identity as a Kurdish woman and was based on fabricated evidence. Her lawyers argued the trial was unfair.
İstanbul municipal official found two days after kidnapping
Erhan Karaal, a deputy general manager of İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality Kültür A.Ş., was kidnapped near his home on June 17 and found two days later by police in an abandoned factory in the Tuzla district. He is a defendant in an ongoing corruption trial involving 414 people. According to his lawyer, Karaal was attacked by individuals who took him against his will. The kidnappers used a cloned license plate from a neighbor's car. Eight suspects were detained, including one individual identified as İ.A., who had multiple criminal records and was reportedly involved in providing food to the
Islamic community leader released despite 19-year sentence in child marriage case
Yusuf Ziya Gümüşel, a prominent leader of the İsmailağa sect in Turkey, was released from prison under judicial control following a 19-year sentence for child abuse related to a forced marriage involving his 6-year-old daughter. The Hiranur Foundation and other members of his religious network celebrated the release, with some attributing it to the coverage by the pro-government newspaper Yeni Şafak. The Women’s Platform for Equality expressed concern over the implications of the decision regarding protections against child abuse within religious communities.
2 opposition mayors detained in separate corruption probes in Türkiye
Turkish authorities detained dozens of suspects, including the mayors of two opposition-run municipalities, as part of separate investigations into alleged bribery, corruption, and abuse of office. In Istanbul, prosecutors ordered the detention of 41 suspects, including Adalar Mayor Ali Ercan Akpolat, following an investigation into allegations that municipal officials accepted bribes in exchange for issuing permits to unauthorized businesses and construction projects in protected historical areas. The Anadolu Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office stated the investigation focused on claims that Adl
'I was already hungry': Private school teachers continue hunger strike in Ankara
Private sector teachers and educators in Ankara who were denied public school appointments through oral interviews are continuing a hunger strike. They are protesting for higher wages, better employment rights, and improved working conditions. The strike began after a police crackdown on their demonstrations, which involved tear gas and the detention of over 40 people, including union leaders. Burcu Çıra, a member of the Private Sector Teachers Union, described the situation as a 'declaration of helplessness,' stating that teachers are struggling to survive on meager salaries that barely cover
European Parliament adopts resolution seeking sanctions on Turkey’s justice minister
The European Parliament has passed a resolution urging sanctions against Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gürlek due to alleged violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The resolution calls for asset freezes and criticizes Gürlek's role in what it describes as a 'repressive machinery.' It highlights concerns over a large-scale indictment targeting former Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, who faces multiple charges including leading a criminal organization. The resolution also references a court decision rejecting İmamoğlu's appeal to restore his university diploma.
Animal rights activist and actress 'Panter Emel' dies at 85
Emel Yıldız, known as 'Panter Emel,' a renowned Turkish actress, columnist, and animal rights advocate, passed away at the age of 85. Her death was announced by actress Tuna Arman on social media and was mourned by her family, colleagues in the arts, and fellow animal rights activists. A funeral service was held at Fatih Camii, followed by her burial in Kilyos Cemetery in Istanbul. Yıldız began her acting career in 1959 and was active during the Yeşilçam era of Turkish cinema. She also played a role in introducing actress Türkan Şoray to the film industry. From the 1990s onward, she gained not
Anti-LGBTI+ amendments removed from draft judicial package
Anti-LGBTI+ amendments have been removed from Turkey's 12th Judicial Package, which is set to be submitted to parliament. Earlier versions of the package included provisions that could have criminalized actions perceived as promoting behaviors against public morality, which critics argued targeted the LGBTI+ community. The current version excludes these amendments, along with topics like women's alimony rights and juvenile delinquency. Over 200 NGOs and rights groups had raised concerns about potential anti-LGBTI+ legislation. The package focuses on streamlining judicial processes and does not
Turkey blocks access to queer dating app Hornet
Turkey has once again blocked access to the queer dating app Hornet, following a decision by the İstanbul 3rd Penal Court on June 5, 2026. The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) announced the blockage of the domain next.hornet.com. This comes after Hornet launched an LGBTI+ visibility program earlier this month. The app was previously banned in Turkey in 2020, but the restriction was lifted in 2023. The current block follows a court decision rejecting the company’s objection, with the firm appealing to the Constitutional Court.
ETHA news agency co-owner Mehmet Acettin detained in house raid
Mehmet Acettin, a human rights defender and co-owner of the ETHA news agency, was detained during a police raid on his home as part of an investigation into the Marksist Teori magazine. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office alleges that the magazine, operated by Varyos Gazetecilik, was used as a front to fund the outlawed Marxist-Leninist Communist Party (MLKP). Arrest warrants were issued for three others, including ETHA editor Nadiye Gürbüz, who provided a statement from prison. Acettin had been previously detained in February 2026 during a nationwide operation targeting socialist组织.
Syrian migrants face barriers in accessing basic rights under repatriation pressure, report shows
A report by the Immigrant and Refugee Solidarity Network highlights challenges faced by Syrian migrant women, LGBTI+ individuals, and children in İstanbul, including barriers to healthcare, education, and legal protection due to recent administrative changes and migration policies. The findings were presented at a press conference organized by the Human Rights Association (İHD).
Explosion in Kütahya metal factory severely injures worker
An explosion at a metal factory in Kütahya, western Turkey, severely injured one worker and affected two others with smoke inhalation. The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 AM local time in the Gediz Organized Industrial Zone. The injured worker, identified as R.T., suffered severe burns and was hospitalized in critical condition. Firefighters extinguished the resulting fire after an hour of efforts. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
Turkey's state broadcaster suspends commentator for confusing teams during World Cup match
Turkey's state broadcaster TRT suspended a commentator after he incorrectly identified the Iran and New Zealand football teams during a World Cup match. The error occurred in the first four minutes of the game, with the commentator initially misidentifying the teams based on jersey colors. The mistake was corrected later in the match after an Iranian player's name was shown on screen. A video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting criticism. TRT issued an apology and announced an investigation, suspending the commentator until the end of the World Cup.
Appeals court upholds 'good conduct' reduction in Pınar Bulunmaz femicide case
The Gaziantep Regional Administrative Court upheld the conviction of Rıdvan B. for the murder of his wife, Pınar Bulunmaz, but applied a 'good conduct' reduction, resulting in a life sentence. The ruling sparked controversy among the victim's family and the public. The case arose from an incident in February 2024 where Pınar was shot during an argument with her husband in Siverek, Urfa. Rıdvan was initially tried without detention but later arrested due to concerns about flight risk.
Prosfygika hunger strikers continue 'strike to death'
Two residents of the Prosfygika squat in Athens, Greece, have been on hunger strikes for 135 and 50 days respectively, protesting against the Attica Region government's planned eviction. They claim the government's stated intention to renovate the building and convert it into social housing is a pretext to sell the property to private interests. The Prosfygika complex, designated as a historic monument since 2003 and 2008, has been occupied by over 400 people since 2012.
Edirne miners lock themselves 1,200 meters underground demanding unpaid wages
Miners in Edirne, northwestern Turkey, initiated an underground strike on June 13, demanding unpaid wages after a three-week protest. On June 14, gunshots were fired above ground as union members and workers' families approached the company building, though no injuries were reported. The Independent Mine Workers Union (Bağımsız Maden İş) reported the incident and called for arrests. A union executive, Başaran Aksu, was summoned by police following a complaint from the company owner, Barış Kiremitçi of Özşen Madencilik.
Shattered drone found on Turkey's Black Sea coast
A fragmented drone was discovered on the Black Sea coast of Turkey in Bartın. Local residents reported finding the drone parts on Kapısuyu Beach, prompting authorities including gendarmerie, crime scene investigators, and bomb disposal experts to secure the device. Initial inspections could not determine the drone's country of origin, and it will undergo further technical analysis in Karabük before being sent to Ankara. The article also references past incidents involving drones in the region, including a recent attack on a Turkish cargo ship near Ukraine.
Turkey loves democracy
The article compares democratic practices in Turkey and the United Kingdom, highlighting differences in voter participation and civic engagement. It notes high voter turnout in Turkey, attributed to the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the emphasis on democratic processes. In contrast, it criticizes low voter turnout in the UK, suggesting a decline in democratic engagement and an increasing influence of right-wing politics.
At least 212 workers killed on the job in May
At least 212 workers died in work-related incidents in Turkey during May, with the total reaching 835 fatalities in the first five months of the year, according to the Health and Safety Labor Watch (İSİG). The report highlights concerns over child labor, noting seven child workers killed in May, including one participating in the MESEM vocational education program. Data was collected from national media and other sources such as families, experts, and unions.
'Pashinyan's election win shows Armenian voters want peace with Turkey'
In Armenia's June 7 parliamentary elections, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's Civil Contract Party won 61 out of 105 seats, securing 49.81% of the vote. Other major parties included Samvel Karapetyan's Strong Armenia Alliance (23.29%) and former President Robert Kocharyan's Armenia Alliance (9.94%). Pashinyan stated that the election result reflected public support for peace and independence, and a rejection of what he called a 'tripartite party of war.' Journalist Vartan Estukyan, part of Turkey's Armenian community, interpreted the re-election of Pashinyan as a choice in favor of peace and r
Nearly 2,000 miners laid off after privatization of Manisa coal mine
Nearly 2,000 miners were laid off following the privatization of the Işıklar coal mine in Manisa, according to reports by Evrensel. The state-owned Turkish Coal Operations (TKİ) received an initial payment from the private company acquiring the mine. The mine was operated by Yeni Anadolu AŞ, which holds a majority stake in TKİ. The company claims it will pay all outstanding worker entitlements in full during mediation sessions. The Mine Workers Union of Turkey (Türkiye Maden-İş) has not yet commented on the layoffs, though it previously pledged to protect workers' rights during the privatized.
Queer social media personality Mükremin Gezgin’s Instagram account banned in Turkey
The Instagram account of LGBTI+ social media personality Mükremin Gezgin was blocked in Turkey following a request from the Family and Social Services Ministry. The account had over 400,000 followers. Users in Turkey attempting to access the profile receive a message stating the account is unavailable due to compliance with a legal request from the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA). Gezgin was previously arrested in February on charges related to drug facilitation and prostitution, and was released in June.
İstanbul municipal official alleges strip search during detention
Fatoş Pınar Türker, general manager of Medya AŞ, an Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality media subsidiary, alleged she was subjected to a strip search during her detention as part of a corruption investigation. She described the incident during her court appearance on June 9, stating that police officers instructed her to remove her clothing and perform degrading actions. Türker defended her experience publicly, criticizing the practice as an attack on dignity. The report highlights criticism from political parties and women's rights organizations, who condemned strip searches as violations of人权
Turkey's plastic waste imports from EU countries hit record high in 2025
According to a Greenpeace Turkey report, EU plastic waste exports to Turkey rose by 19% in 2025, reaching 503,000 tons—a record high. This represents a 435-fold increase since 2004. The report criticizes the gap between Turkey's stated commitment to zero waste policies and the reality of importing large volumes of plastic waste. Greenpeace Turkey calls for stronger leadership and policy changes, highlighting the upcoming COP31 conference in Antalya as an opportunity for meaningful progress.
Over 200 NGOs and rights groups raise concern over planned anti-LGBTI+ legislation
Over 212 civil society and human rights organizations, including the IPS Communication Foundation / bianet, have raised concerns about proposed anti-LGBTI+ regulations included in Turkey’s upcoming 12th Judicial Reform Package. The organizations note that similar measures had been previously removed from earlier judicial reform packages due to public opposition but are now being reintroduced. The reforms also reportedly include provisions related to identity verification on social media and changes to divorce and alimony laws.
Kurdish man tortured over border protest released after first hearing
A Kurdish university student, D.K., who was detained and allegedly tortured in January during a protest in Mardin, was released after his first court hearing. The protest was against Syrian interim government forces' attacks on Kurdish-controlled areas. D.K. was previously reported to have lowered the Turkish flag in a border area but faced no formal charges. During the hearing, D.K. denied the charges and detailed the torture he endured, filing a complaint against his torturers. His lawyer, Rıdvan Kurt, argued that the legal basis for the charges had not been established. The court ordered D.
Two Kurdish journalists acquitted over reporting on Öcalan, one sentenced
An İstanbul court acquitted two Kurdish journalists from the Mezopotamia Agency (MA), Esra Solin Dal and Mehmet Aslan, of charges related to membership in a terrorist organization. However, journalist Erdoğan Alayumat was sentenced to one year and three months in prison for 'making propaganda for a terrorist organization,' though the sentence was suspended. The journalists did not attend the hearing, but their defense lawyers were present. Defense attorneys argued that the evidence consisted solely of news reports and emphasized the importance of freedom of expression. Alayumat's lawyer noted,
Summer is 'job-hunting season' rather than vacation for private school teachers
Private school teachers in Turkey face significant challenges during the summer months, as they must search for new jobs after the academic year ends. Unlike public school teachers, who typically have stable employment, private school teachers experience job insecurity and extended working hours due to additional responsibilities such as student tracking, parent communication, and institutional promotion efforts.
Business magnate Rahmi Koç investigated after outcry over Kurdish woman joke
Prosecutors in İzmir have initiated a criminal investigation into Rahmi Koç, a prominent Turkish businessman and head of Koç Holding, following a joke he made about Kurdish women during a hospital opening ceremony. The remarks, which were recorded and shared on social media, led to public outrage and calls for an apology. The video showed Koç making a comment implying that a Kurdish woman would tell a doctor to undress first, prompting laughter from those around him, including former Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım. Protests and social media campaigns followed, with demands for an apology fromK
İstanbul's Eurasia Tunnel closed after car accident
A car accident in Istanbul's Eurasia Tunnel caused a fire panel to rupture, leading to water flooding part of the tunnel. The tunnel was subsequently closed to traffic while cleanup and repairs are ongoing. Officials confirmed the water came from the firefighting system, not seawater.
'Persistence defines the struggle of trans movement in Turkey'
The article discusses the ongoing challenges faced by the trans community in Turkey, particularly focusing on the Trans Pride Marches. It highlights increased police interference, detentions, digital surveillance, and spatial restrictions that have affected both event practices and the ability of individuals to gather. Despite these obstacles, solidarity networks across various cities, neighborhoods, and online platforms continue to work towards maintaining visibility, organization, and political engagement. The article includes an interview with Ahmet Soykarcı from the 12th İstanbul Trans Prí
Days of despair and defiance
The article describes two political rallies in Turkey, contrasting the enthusiasm of one leader with the lack of support for another. It includes satirical commentary on political events, referencing symbolic actions such as releasing white doves and references to historical repression.
In the shadow of the intelligent machine: the construction of the obedient mind
The article discusses artificial intelligence (AI) not just as a technological advancement but as a new mode of capital accumulation. It argues that AI influences decision-making processes and risks creating a 'compliant type of subject' by reshaping how knowledge, labor, and thought are distributed. The piece critiques the common framing of AI as simply a tool for efficiency and emphasizes the need to examine the social and economic structures in which AI is embedded.
Court orders release of journalist İsmail Arı after 75 days in pretrial detention
A court ordered the release of journalist İsmail Arı after 75 days in pretrial detention. Arı, a reporter for BirGün, faced charges of 'publicly spreading misleading information' and 'violating privacy.' He was arrested based on his statements during a YouTube program and social media posts related to alleged corruption involving the Erdoğan family and the management of public resources.
Hornet denies reports of investigation against it in Turkey
Hornet, a queer social network and dating app, denied reports that Istanbul prosecutors have launched an investigation against the platform. The company stated that the investigation is not targeting the platform itself, but rather a specific user whose actions during a live broadcast were reportedly complained about. Hornet clarified that the content in question had already been reviewed and removed by their moderation team, and the user involved was released after providing a statement. The company expressed concern over media portrayals suggesting the platform itself was under investigation
İstanbul Italian High School teachers end four-month strike with victory
Teachers at the private Italian High School in Istanbul ended a 123-day strike after the school administration agreed to their demands regarding wages and working conditions. The teachers, who are all Turkish citizens, cited a significant pay disparity compared to their Italian counterparts as the reason for the strike. The Tez-Koop-İş union confirmed that the necessary documents were submitted to officially terminate the strike. Teachers celebrated their victory with traditional dances and food.
Court stays ministry's takeover of İstanbul’s Basilica Cistern
An İstanbul administrative court has halted the government's attempt to take over the Basilica Cistern from the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The court accepted an appeal from the municipality and stopped the enforcement of an eviction order issued by the Fatih District Governor’s Office. The cistern had been transferred to the General Directorate of Foundations under the Culture and Tourism Ministry, but following the court's decision, the case has been returned to the local court.
Doruk Madencilik miners receive all unpaid dues after resuming protest
Doruk Madencilik mine workers have received all their unpaid wages and other dues following a protest resumed on June 1, according to the Independent Miners Union (Bağımsız Maden-İş). The union stated that severance pay, unused leave pay, collective bargaining agreement differentials, and forced unpaid leave payments were settled. A mechanism was established between the union, the ministry, and the company to address potential calculation errors. The miners had previously protested since April, including a march to Ankara, and ended their two-week protest on April 29 after negotiations with三家省
Constitutional Court annuls indefinite alimony payment after divorce
The Constitutional Court of Turkey has annulled a provision allowing for indefinite alimony payments after divorce. The change follows a request by the Antalya 12th Family Court, which argued that the wording in Article 175 of the Turkish Civil Code was unconstitutional. The annulment will take effect nine months after the court publishes its detailed reasoning, during which time Parliament will draft a replacement regulation. The Justice Minister expressed support for the decision, noting that the government is already working on amending divorce-related laws as part of broader judicial改革.
Men killed 14 women in May
The article compiles data from various Turkish news outlets, indicating that men killed at least 14 women and two children in May. It also reports instances of injury, abuse, harassment, and forced prostitution involving women. The article notes that 112 women were killed in the first five months of 2026 and highlights suspicious deaths of 43 women and seven children in May, where the cause could not be definitively determined as gender-based. Specific locations and names of some victims are listed.
Journalist Cihan Berk sentenced to over six years in prison
Journalist Cihan Berk was sentenced to six years and three months in prison by the Tunceli 1st Heavy Penal Court on charges of 'being a member of a terrorist organization.' Berk, a reporter for the Pir News Agency focusing on Turkey's Alevi minority, was detained during a police raid on his home on December 19, 2025. His lawyers and representatives from the Human Rights Association (İHD) Dersim Branch attended the hearing. Berk denied the allegations, stating that his work was within the bounds of journalism. His legal team argued that the prosecution lacked concrete evidence and demanded his
Potato production hit by rising input costs
Potato producers in Turkey are facing significant financial challenges due to rising input costs, particularly exacerbated by high inflation. Farmers report that the cost of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs has far exceeded the revenue generated from selling their crops. Lütfi Ardıç, a farmer from Afyonkarahisar, highlights the economic strain, noting that the price disparity makes farming unsustainable. According to Turkstat data, potato production increased in 2024 but declined slightly in subsequent years.
Massive ghost net removed from sea off İstanbul
A large ghost net covering 15,000 square meters was discovered off İstanbul’s Heybeliada island and subsequently removed from the sea. The net, which had been entangling marine life such as a juvenile fan mussel, was identified through the Mobil Atlas app developed by the Marine Life Protection Association and the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry. Teams used underwater cameras to locate the net, which was found lodged in rocky areas and crevices. During removal efforts, they also collected additional debris including monofilament netting, lead weights, ropes, and other materials.
Tracking employee hours with biometric data deemed unlawful
The Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) has ruled that using biometric data to track employee working hours is unlawful. The authority noted that while laws allow employers to monitor working hours, there is no specific legal provision permitting the use of biometric identification for this purpose. The KVKK recommended alternative methods such as encrypted cards, PINs, signatures, or manual entries. Biometric systems like fingerprint or facial recognition were described as convenient but raised significant privacy concerns.
Court bans X account of Turkey's oldest newspaper
An Elazığ court ordered the blocking of the X account ofCumhuriyet, Turkey's oldest newspaper, citing Article 8/A of the Internet Law, which permits content blocks for reasons including national security and public order. The newspaper changed its handle to potentially bypass the ban, though the account remains accessible in Turkey. The exact reason for the block was not specified.
Turkey’s transportation emissions raise alarm ahead of COP31
A study by researchers from Middle East Technical University highlights challenges in transitioning to low-carbon transportation in Turkey, citing factors like rapid urbanization, high private vehicle usage, and road-centric infrastructure. The research notes that despite Turkey's 2053 net-zero goals, progress is hindered by these issues, though opportunities exist for sustainable transport development.
Environmental activist Cemre Nayir released after first hearing in 'terror' case
Environmental activist and Polen Ecology Association Chair Cemre Nayir was released following his first court hearing on charges of being a member of a terrorist organization. He was arrested during an operation targeting the Socialist Party of the Oppressed (ESP) and affiliated groups. Nayir criticized the indictment, stating it lacked clarity and sufficient evidence of his alleged involvement. His lawyer noted that the indictment did not include specific dates or individuals, making it difficult to mount a proper defense. The indictment references 17 money transfers involving 12 individuals,
Basilica Cistern temporarily closed after government takeover
The Basilica Cistern, a major cultural site in Istanbul, has been transferred from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality to the General Directorate of Foundations under the Culture and Tourism Ministry. The municipality evacuated the site and removed its ticket booths following the transfer. The cistern has been temporarily closed while the new management sets up its own ticketing system. The site was restored by the municipality in 2022 and had attracted over 11 million visitors since then. The transfer followed legal proceedings, including a court order to suspend the administrative action.
Happy Ghadir Khumm
Arab Alawites celebrate Ghadir Khumm, their most sacred holiday, which commemorates the day Prophet Muhammad declared Ali bin Abi Talib as his successor during his Farewell Pilgrimage. The holiday falls on the 18th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is observed by Arab Alawites and other Shia groups and is marked by communal feasting and hospitality.
Turkey's internet authority censors reports exposing visa outsourcing monopoly
Turkey's Information Technologies and Communication Authority (BTK) has blocked access to an investigative report titled 'The Visa Empire' published by the news site Kısa Dalga. The report exposed a visa outsourcing monopoly involving private companies handling visa applications on behalf of governments. The investigation, conducted by Lighthouse Reports with 14 international media partners, highlighted how companies like VFS Global offer optional services that function as mandatory fees for applicants.
Poverty threshold exceeds four minimum wages in May
According to the monthly Hunger and Poverty Threshold Survey conducted by the Confederation of Turkish Trade Unions (Türk-İş), the poverty threshold for a family of four in Ankara reached 114,576 liras in May, surpassing the minimum wage by more than four times. The hunger threshold—the minimum monthly food expenditure needed for a healthy diet—was 35,174 liras, equivalent to 125% of the current minimum wage. Living costs for a single employee also increased to 45,488 liras in May. Türk-İş noted consistent rises in these figures over the first five months of the year.
Hornet launches visibility program for LGBTI+s in Turkey
Hornet, a global queer social platform, has launched a visibility program for the LGBTI+ community in Turkey. The initiative, called 'Hornet Turkey 2026,' involves multi-stage participation including photo shoots, content creation, and community events. Selected participants will gain opportunities for international visibility and collaboration. The article also references Turkey's poor ranking in the ILGA Rainbow Index and notes Apple's removal of the Hornet app from the Turkish App Store in 2021.
Rare sperm whale sighting off Hatay coast
A sperm whale was spotted off the coast of Hatay in southern Turkey, near the mouth of the Asi River where it flows into the Mediterranean Sea. The sighting was made by members of the Hatay Diving Center during their return trip from a diving event. They observed the whale for some time and recorded video footage with a mobile phone before the whale swam away. A local expert, Dr. Pedram Türkoğlu, commented on the rarity of such an occurrence, calling it a great privilege.