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Turkey: Sheikh of Religious Sect Gathers Thousands in Izmir

Published January 20, 2026, 07:16
Turkey: Sheikh of Religious Sect Gathers Thousands in Izmir

A large religious gathering took place in Izmir, Turkey, led by a sheikh of a religious sect, causing concern among the local community and the Turkish opposition. The rally, attended by thousands, occurred in a city traditionally considered a stronghold of Kemalism and European Turkey. Fanatical slogans were chanted and a call for repentance was made during the event, which was interpreted as a sign of the spread of radical Islam with the government's tolerance. The opposition in Turkey criticized the government, arguing that it allows such gatherings while banning others. The government, for its part, denied reports regarding the release of ISIS members in Syria. Simultaneously, Turkey is closely monitoring the visit of the Israeli Defense Minister to Greece and the agreements regarding arms programs. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that Turkey addresses all geographical regions with "heart and embrace," rejecting racism and nationalism. He emphasized that Turkey has transformed into a country that is not following events, but rather being followed by everyone. Erdoğan's statement regarding the change in Turkey's position on the global stage highlights the country's growing influence and the expectation that its views will be heard on international issues. However, the rally in Izmir and the reactions it provoked reveal internal tensions and concerns about the direction of Turkish politics.