Turkiye Parliament Clash, Gas Increase, Terrorists Stopped

THE EARLY PHOENIX

Turkiye Report

August 19, 2024

Turkish Parliament BloodBath Fight Escalates Over Opposition MP’s Imprisonment

A heated debate on August 16, 2024, in Turkey’s Grand National Assembly escalated into a violent clash between lawmakers. The conflict erupted when opposition deputy Ahmet Sik called President Erdogan’s ruling party a “terrorist organization,” sparking outrage. Ruling party members reacted by attacking Sik at the podium, resulting in injuries and bloodstains near the lectern. The session aimed to address the case of Can Atalay, an imprisoned opposition deputy whose status has sparked controversy. Despite three favorable court rulings, lower courts refused to release Atalay, causing unrest among supporters. The tensions continued on August 17, 2024, during a tumultuous seven-hour session in the Turkish parliament. The session ended with parliament rejecting a Constitutional Court ruling that ordered Atalay’s reinstatement. Multiple opposition MPs were injured in clashes, with a ruling party deputy attacking Şık again for his terrorism accusations. Parliament’s decision to keep Atalay imprisoned further escalated political tensions.

Türkiye Increases Daily Gas Production from Black Sea Field to 6 MCM

Türkiye has increased its daily natural gas production from the Black Sea’s Sakarya gas field to 6 million cubic meters (mcm), according to Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar. Speaking at a meeting in Zonguldak, Bayraktar highlighted the nation’s energy advancements, including the deployment of advanced deep-sea drilling ships. The Sakarya field, with estimated reserves of 710 billion cubic meters, is now supplying gas to 2.6 million households. The output is expected to rise to 10 mcm by April 2025, with plans to further expand production to 40 mcm in later phases.

Türkiye Neutralizes 4 Terrorists Who Infiltrated from Iraq via Gliders

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the neutralization of four terrorists who infiltrated from Iraq using paragliders. The “Akinci” drone from the Land Forces Command detected two flying objects crossing the border in the Dogun Mountain area in Şırnak province. Following clashes, Turkish forces successfully neutralized the terrorists and seized the gliders along with weapons and other materials. The PKK, which has strongholds in northern Iraq, continues to pose a threat to Türkiye, with operations ongoing to combat the terrorist organization.

Türkiye to Explore Oil in Somalia as Part of Africa Expansion Strategy

Türkiye is set to send its 86-meter research vessel, Oruc Reis, to explore offshore oil areas in Somalia starting in September, aiming to enhance its energy security and influence in Africa. This initiative, confirmed by Mohamed Hashi, director of Somalia’s oil ministry, aligns with Ankara’s broader strategy to strengthen ties in a region where global powers like China, Russia, and the Gulf states are also vying for influence. The move is part of Türkiye’s active foreign policy, which combines soft power, such as aid and education, with trade and economic relations.

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