Turkish authorities have arrested more than 200 individuals suspected of ties to terrorist organizations, including the Islamic State, as part of heightened security measures ahead of the NATO summit scheduled for July 7-8 in Ankara. The Ankara prosecutor's office announced that 241 arrest warrants were issued, resulting in the detention of 209 individuals, with ongoing operations to locate additional suspects. Among those arrested, 56 are alleged members of the Islamic State, while 35 belong to the Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front (DHKP-C), a group designated as terrorist by Turkey.
In anticipation of the NATO gathering, which will see the participation of U.S. President Donald Trump and leaders from 31 other member states, Turkey has implemented strict security protocols. These measures include a ban on public demonstrations starting June 28, restrictions on airport access, and sealing off areas around the summit venue and hotels accommodating delegations. This crackdown follows a nationwide sweep last month, where 324 suspected Islamic State affiliates were detained.
Turkey has long grappled with threats from various internal dissident groups, prompting frequent security operations by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government. The upcoming NATO summit is expected to further intensify these security efforts as the country aims to ensure a safe environment for high-profile international discussions.