Istanbul's Historic Landmarks See New Developments: Greek Orphanage Conversion and Iron Church Preservation

 

Istanbul's Historic Landmarks See New Developments: Greek Orphanage Conversion and Iron Church Preservation

Recent developments in Istanbul have brought renewed attention to the city's rich architectural heritage. The Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage, situated off the coast of Istanbul and recognized as Europe's largest wooden structure, is scheduled to undergo transformation and be converted into a hotel. Concurrently, Istanbul's historic iron church continues to be highlighted as a prominent symbol of Ottoman-era craftsmanship. These sites serve as key historical anchors in a city uniquely positioned at the cultural crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Sources:

• Historic Greek Orphanage in Istanbul Set to Be Transformed Into a Hotel (GreekReporter.com)

• Istanbul's historic iron church stands as symbol of Ottoman-era craftsmanship (Geo News)

5th Istanbul International Water Forum Convened by BSEC

 

5th Istanbul International Water Forum Convened by BSEC

The 5th Istanbul International Water Forum has been organized in the city to bring together regional stakeholders for discussions on water management and sustainability. Highlighted by the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), the forum features a full-day schedule of panels and cooperative talks aimed at addressing international water policies and economic cooperation within the Black Sea region.

Sources:

• BSEC: 5th Istanbul International Water Forum

Detained Flotilla Activists Released by Israel Arrive Safely in Istanbul

 

Detained Flotilla Activists Released by Israel Arrive Safely in Istanbul

International activists who were detained by Israel during the Gaza Solidarity Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 humanitarian mission have arrived safely in Istanbul, Turkey. Australian Minister Tanya Plibersek confirmed that 11 Australian activists are currently in Istanbul and are receiving assistance from Australian consular officials. Additionally, the Malaysian Foreign Ministry reported that Malaysian participants from the same flotilla mission landed safely at Istanbul Airport at 5:45 PM local time and are scheduled to return to their home country shortly.

Sources:

• ABC News: Eleven Australian activists detained by Israel now in Istanbul, minister says

• New Straits Times: Malaysians detained in flotilla mission arrive safely in Istanbul

• Bernama: GSF 2.0: Released Malaysians Safe In Istanbul, Expected Home On Sunday

Turkey Revokes Operating License of Istanbul Bilgi University Amid Criminal Probe

 

Turkey Revokes Operating License of Istanbul Bilgi University Amid Criminal Probe

By presidential decree, the Turkish government has officially revoked the operational license of Istanbul Bilgi University, effectively forcing the closure of the institution. The decision follows a state seizure linked to an ongoing criminal investigation into the university's operating foundation and its owner, Can Holding. The closure order for the liberal-leaning independent university was issued in the middle of the academic period, directly affecting a student body of over 20,000 domestic and international students.

Sources:

• Reuters: Turkey revokes licence for university seized by state in criminal probe

• Dawn: Turkiye's Erdogan shuts Istanbul Bilgi University seized by state in criminal probe

• Euronews: Erdoğan signs decree closing Istanbul's Bilgi University amid criminal probe into owner

• The Times of Israel: Turkey's Erdogan orders closure of liberal-leaning Istanbul university

İstanbul Bilgi University Closed by Presidential Decree

 

İstanbul Bilgi University Closed by Presidential Decree

According to a decree issued by President Tayyip Erdoğan and published in the Official Gazette, İstanbul Bilgi University has been officially shut down. The institution was previously recognized as one of Turkey's major foundation universities. The decree mandates the immediate cessation of the university's academic and administrative operations.

Courthouse Shooting Suspect Found with Flight Ticket to Istanbul

 

Courthouse Shooting Suspect Found with Flight Ticket to Istanbul

The bond for 28-year-old Dalton Levi Eatherly, a suspect in a recent courthouse shooting, has been reset to $1 million. During the investigation, law enforcement detectives discovered that Eatherly was in possession of body armor and a one-way airline ticket to Istanbul, Turkey, with a scheduled departure date of May 22.

Conservation Efforts Underway for Endangered Coral Species in Marmara Sea

 

Conservation Efforts Underway for Endangered Coral Species in Marmara Sea

Environmental protection initiatives are currently being implemented off the coast of Istanbul to preserve the "Eunicella cavolini" coral species. These conservation efforts are taking place at depths ranging from 26 to 35 meters in the Marmara Sea, where the endangered coral populations are located.