Ahead of the NATO summit: Ankara steps up security measures – hundreds arrested over several days

Ankara – 06.07.2026: Security has been significantly tightened in the Turkish capital just days ahead of the NATO summit. According to consistent reports from domestic and international media, authorities have temporarily detained numerous people in recent days. Government offices describe this as a coordinated operation against so-called extremists and groups classified as having violent tendencies. Opposition figures and human rights organizations, however, criticize the suppression of even peaceful demonstrations under the pretext of security and the extensive regulation of public spaces.

Additional checkpoints have been set up in central districts, special forces are patrolling major transport hubs, and temporary assembly bans have been imposed in several squares. Witnesses reported extensive searches of bags and vehicles, with some also reporting identity checks at subway exits. According to opposition accounts, there have been cases involving the detention of dozens to hundreds of people in connection with small, unauthorized demonstrations against the alliance. There are no specific, independently verifiable figures, and government authorities have not disclosed an overall total, avoiding comment by citing ongoing investigative proceedings.

Ahead of the international event, human rights organizations are calling for compliance with rule-of-law standards. Human Rights Watch criticized the broad application of assembly regulations and called for transparent criteria regarding restrictions on freedom of assembly. Legal experts note that short-term bans and extensive exclusion zones must be supported by grounds that can be recognized in court. Authorities counter that preventive measures are necessary during periods of elevated risk to protect delegations, residents, and visitors.

The NATO summit is scheduled for July 7 and 8. Delegations from member states, numerous heads of state and government, and the new alliance leadership are expected to attend. According to NATO, the agenda includes defense capabilities on the eastern flank, support for Ukraine, air defense, and military logistics cooperation. The meeting will result in extensive traffic restrictions, with major routes in Ankara temporarily controlled and access to the venue permitted only for authorized vehicles. Hotels near the government are being protected by defensive perimeters, and additional airspace restrictions will apply during key periods.

Local media report that city authorities and police have opened hotlines to inform residents about controls, detours, and urgent changes. Traders in affected areas fear declining revenue, and some businesses have announced reduced opening hours during the summit. At the same time, the opposition continues to call for peaceful assemblies, but emphasizes that demonstrations are only possible in designated areas. It remains uncertain whether further measures will remain in place after the summit ends, and authorities say they are continuing to assess the situation.