Erdoğan: 149 Suspects Arrested in Turkey’s Forest Fires Case
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, speaking after a cabinet meeting at the Presidential Complex, outlined the government’s measures regarding the widespread forest fires and the country’s security priorities. Erdoğan also called on political opponents to cooperate in national security cases.
In his remarks, Erdoğan provided statistics on arrests following the recent fires, stating that 149 suspects had been detained since the beginning of June on allegations of involvement in the fires. Of these, 38 have been jailed, and judicial supervision orders have been issued for 61 others. The president noted that one of those arrested in Bursa had suspected ties to the “Fethullah Gülen network.”
Highlighting the global increase in forest fires, Erdoğan detailed the government’s efforts to combat the crisis. He said that thanks to drones and watchtowers, fire detection time has been reduced to two minutes, while emergency response time has been cut to 11 minutes. Although most fires have been contained, he added, two active fire zones remain.
During the meeting, Erdoğan also addressed the issue of purchasing Eurofighter jets. Responding to recent statements by Özgür Özel, leader of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), he said:
“If reports are true that the opposition leader privately supported the government’s efforts to acquire Eurofighter jets, this is a constructive and patriotic approach.”
He continued:
“We have always welcomed all national and patriotic initiatives. Becoming a truly national party that prioritizes Turkey’s interests is not only our desire but also the nation’s expectation from all political factions.”
Regarding the Eurofighter negotiations, Erdoğan stated:
“At a time when the need to strengthen our defense capabilities is more critical than ever, the cooperation and support of all institutions and political parties can help advance these complex negotiations. We are open to any assistance in this regard.”
Erdoğan also referred to the “Terror-Free Turkey” project as a national initiative, urging opposition parties:
“The fight to rid the country of terrorism must not be sacrificed to political calculations. This is a historic opportunity to stand on the right side of history.”
He reiterated the government’s readiness to collaborate with all political groups on this issue.
On the diplomatic front, Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s mediating role in the Ukraine war, expressing hope that Istanbul would soon host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine:
“Just as we hosted negotiations, we will also host peace.”
Concluding the meeting, the president offered condolences for the deaths of five forestry workers and five volunteer rescuers in recent incidents. He pledged that the exact causes of these events and the widespread fires would soon be determined, with legal action taken against any negligence.
