After Yanardağ's arrest, who was accused of espionage on behalf of Israel, the channel effectively ceased its operations. Temporary management of the channel has been handed over to other individuals.
Photo AFP. One of the opposition protests in Istanbul
As part of this case, the mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is considered one of the main contenders for the presidency in the upcoming 2028 elections, is also set to be interrogated.
Yanardağ described the events as "a sign that Turkey is moving towards a totalitarian regime" and noted that this represents a serious blow to freedom of speech.
Although Tele1's broadcasts have not been completely halted, on October 25, instead of the usual news, the program aired a review of the Teknofest exhibition, dedicated to Turkey's achievements in the defense industry, as well as documentaries and health programs.
Opposition supporters previously held mass rallies in Istanbul.
Ekrem İmamoğlu was detained on March 19, 2025, leading to a wave of protests across the country. After some time, he was suspended from office and accused of bribery. In July, he was sentenced to one year and eight months in prison.
We remind you that on September 7, new mass protests against the authorities began in Istanbul. The protests were sparked by dissatisfaction among supporters of the opposition party with the government's actions. The police blocked the headquarters of the political organization, which was perceived as an attempt to suppress dissent. In response, the opposition called for mass rallies.
Authorities imposed a ban on gatherings in six districts of Istanbul, and the court removed several opposition leaders from their positions.
