Brits with plans to jet off to a favoured holiday destination have been issued an urgent safety alert from the UK Foreign Office. The latest update, issued yesterday by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), has flagged that certain areas in Turkey might see "violent" protests erupt.
The FCDO has strongly advised travellers to steer clear of "all demonstrations" and to vacate any vicinity where a protest may spark up. It's been noted that public transport could be thrown into chaos due to these disturbances.
The use of tear gas and water cannons by police has been confirmed by the FCDO, which mentioned Istanbul among other Turkish cities as hotspots. Ignoring the FCDO's cautions could not only risk your personal safety but potentially render your travel insurance void.
The FCDO's briefing stated: "Regular demonstrations and protests are currently taking place in Istanbul and other cities across Turkey." It continued, detailing the potential for violence: "Demonstrations may become violent. The police response has included use of tear gas and water cannons.
"Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region and in locations across Turkey." Protests have been especially prevalent around diplomatic missions linked to the conflict, with significant activity outside Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.
It comes after Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was jailed, triggering six nights of massive protests calling for his release. He is the likely candidate to challenge President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the next presidential election and protesters say he is being detained on trumped up charges.
The advice from the FCDO is to:
- Plan your travels carefully to sidestep any disruptions
- Keep away from large gatherings and protests
- Stay updated via local news outlets.
In addition to these warnings, the FCDO has strongly advised against all travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to ongoing conflict and an increased risk of terrorism. The FCDO cautioned: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
"Stay aware of your surroundings at all times." Furthermore, the FCDO highlighted that anyone wishing to visit Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey or Hakkari province in the southeast must obtain the necessary permission and permits.
