Turkish authorities have arrested more than 100 people during an anti-NATO demonstration organized by the Communist Party of Turkey.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 5, the Communist Party of Turkey said the march took place in Ankara’s Kızılay Square and that more than 100 party members, including several senior officials, were detained.
According to Reuters, protesters chanted anti-NATO slogans, including “NATO is a murderer, get out of our country” and “No passage for NATO,” in opposition to the alliance’s policies.
Riot police used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people also marched in Istanbul from Taksim Square to the Dolmabahçe area.
Two additional demonstrations organized by left-wing groups were held in the Kadıköy district. Despite a heavy security presence, both gatherings ended without clashes.
Kemal Okuyan, secretary-general of the Communist Party of Turkey, said protesters had gathered across the country to oppose NATO and would not allow Ankara to remain silent in the face of the alliance.
Turkey is scheduled to host leaders of NATO’s 32 member states and officials from partner countries on Tuesday and Wednesday.
