Ahead of the NATO summit: Ankara tightens security – Hundreds arrested in just a few days

Ankara – 06.07.2026: In the Turkish capital, just a few days before the NATO summit, security measures have been noticeably tightened. According to consistent reports from domestic and international media, authorities have detained numerous people in recent days. Official agencies say these are coordinated operations targeting extremist suspects and groups assessed as having violent tendencies. Opposition representatives and human rights organizations, however, criticize that under the guise of security, even peaceful demonstrations are being suppressed and public space is being tightly controlled.

Additional checkpoints have been set up in central districts, special units are patrolling transport hubs, and some squares have been temporarily closed to gatherings. Witnesses describe extensive searches of bags and vehicles, sometimes including document checks directly at metro exits. According to opposition sources, dozens to hundreds of people have been detained in connection with small unauthorized protests against the alliance. There are no concrete figures that can be independently verified; state authorities have not disclosed an aggregate total and cite ongoing proceedings.

Human rights organizations warn that rule-of-law standards must be respected in the context of the international event. Human Rights Watch had previously criticized the broad application of protest regulations and called for transparent criteria for interventions in the right to assembly. Lawyers note that short-term bans and extensive exclusion zones require a solid legal basis. Authorities counter that at a time of increased risk, preventive measures are necessary to protect delegations, residents and visitors.

The NATO summit is scheduled to take place on 7 and 8 July. Delegations from member countries are expected, including numerous heads of state and government as well as the alliance’s new leadership. According to NATO, the agenda includes defense capability on the eastern flank, support for Ukraine, air defense and cooperation in arms production. The meeting entails extensive traffic restrictions; several major roads in Ankara will be temporarily closed, and access to the conference center will be restricted to accredited vehicles. Hotels near the government district are protected by security cordons, and airspace is also subject to additional regulations during peak hours.

Local media report that the city administration and police have set up hotlines for residents to provide information about closures, alternative routes and short-term changes. Businesses in affected areas expect a decline in revenue, and some establishments have announced reduced opening hours during the summit. At the same time, the opposition continues to call for peaceful gatherings, but emphasizes that demonstrations can only take place in authorized areas. It remains unclear whether additional measures will be maintained after the summit ends; authorities cite the ongoing assessment of the situation.