Turkish authorities have intensified their crackdown on alleged corruption and Gülen movement links, detaining dozens in recent operations. On May 23, 2025, 65 soldiers and police officers were taken into custody for suspected ties to the Gülen movement, according to Turkish Minute. Simultaneously, a corruption probe linked to the jailed Istanbul mayor led to further detentions, as reported by Turkish Minute. These actions occur amidst Turkey’s plans to increase energy exports to Syria, announced by a minister on May 22, 2025, also according to Turkish Minute.
Adding to the energy sector’s developments, a US company estimates a 6.1 billion barrel shale oil reserve in Turkey, as noted by Turkish Minute. These internal actions and energy ambitions unfold as Turkey navigates complex regional diplomacy.
The Turkish Trade Ministry refuted claims of ongoing trade with Israel, asserting that no trade has occurred since May of last year, according to Hürriyet Daily News. Furthermore, Turkey has urged a probe into Israeli “warning shots” during diplomats’ visit to the West Bank, as stated on May 22, 2025, by Turkish Minute. President Erdoğan discussed with Spain’s PM the need for joint efforts to end oppression in Palestine, according to Hürriyet Daily News.
Domestically, Erdoğan has declared 2026–2035 as the “decade of family,” aiming to boost family and birth rates, reported by Hürriyet Daily News and Daily Sabah. Meanwhile, a corruption probe linked to the Istanbul municipality has resulted in over 40 detentions, according to Türkiye Today.
Turkey, officially known as Türkiye since 2022, is a transcontinental country in Southeastern Europe and Western Asia. Its strategic location has historically made it a key player in regional and global affairs. The modern Republic of Türkiye was founded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1923.