The mosaics in Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia will be covered by curtains or lasers during Muslim prayers, said the spokesman for Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party). Christian icons would be uncovered and open to all visitors at other times, and admission would be free, Omer Celik of …
Read More »Pope “deeply hurt” by the Turkish movement in Hagia Sophia | News
Pope Francis has said he was hurt by Turkey’s decision to make Istanbul Hagia Sofia museum of a mosque, but Ankara said the decision will be Maintain a relationship of equality and mutual respect in the country. It was the Vatican’s first reaction to Turkey’s decision to transform the Byzantine-era …
Read More »Turkey: Libya ceasefire now would not benefit GNA | News
Turkey has dismissed prospects for a ceasefire in Libya saying that an agreement incorporating the existing front lines of the conflict would not benefit the internationally recognized National Accord Government (GNA). Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the coastal city of Sirte and al-Jufra air base must be turned over to …
Read More »Turkey threatens ‘response’ if EU imposes sanctions | News
Turkey will respond if the European Union imposes further sanctions on Ankara, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Monday after meeting with the EU’s top diplomat. France’s foreign minister said last week that EU ministers would debate Turkey on July 13 and said further sanctions against Ankara could be considered, in …
Read More »Libyan government promises response after base was hit by ‘foreign air force’ | News
The UN-recognized Libyan government on Sunday condemned the nighttime air strikes on a recently recaptured air base in the west of the country, saying the attack was carried out by a “foreign air force.” Fighters loyal to the National Accord Government (GNA) seized al-Watiya air base, 140 km (90 miles) …
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