Turkey goes into full lockdown as COVID cases surge

Published

5 years ago

April 29, 2021

Once seen as a COVID success story early in the pandemic, Turkey prepares to enter its first full lockdown.

This time last year Turkey was praised by the World Health Organisation, but a year on they have the highest infection rate in Europe.

Critics say the restrictions in March were lifted too early and now the country has suffered more than 43,000 cases yesterday.

Banning alcohol purchases in the next Turkish lockdown has absolutely zero to do with COVID-19 and everything to do with ideological culture war.

They are doing by stealth and under cover of a pandemic what they want to do anyway and it is deeply illiberal and wrong. pic.twitter.com/z0GbsiJ7D0
— Can Okar (@canokar) April 27, 2021

Citizens are now only allowed to leave their homes for essential shopping trips and medical treatment. Alcohol sales will also be limited.

A bar employee collects chairs before closing, on the final day of open restaurants and bars before tighter coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions are enforced, in Istanbul, Turkey April 12, 2021. REUTERS/Dilara Senkaya

Jesse Jackson dies at 84 civil rights leader and presidential candidate

Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, 84, dies, leaving a legacy in equality advocacy and global diplomacy.

Published

8 hours ago

February 18, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, 84, dies, leaving a legacy in equality advocacy and global diplomacy.

Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson has passed away at the age of 84. Known as a servant leader, he dedicated his life to giving a voice to the oppressed and advocating for equality worldwide.

Jackson founded Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition, and served as a special envoy to Africa under President Bill Clinton, leaving a lasting impact on global diplomacy and social justice.

He also ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, played a key role in US politics, and helped secure the release of hostages abroad, remaining a tireless advocate until his passing.

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News

Iran and U.S. reach preliminary nuclear agreement in Geneva

Iran and the US report initial progress in Geneva nuclear talks, agreeing on guiding principles but needing further negotiations.

Published

8 hours ago

February 18, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Iran and the US report initial progress in Geneva nuclear talks, agreeing on guiding principles but needing further negotiations.

Tensions ease as Iran and the United States reach preliminary agreements during high-stakes nuclear talks in Geneva. The discussions focused on technical nuclear issues, with Iran’s Foreign Minister and the IAEA Director General involved.

After four hours of negotiations, both sides confirmed a broad agreement on guiding principles, signaling a potential path toward a formal nuclear deal. While progress is promising, further talks are expected before finalising any agreement.

The talks unfold amid US military deployments in the region, highlighting the delicate balance of diplomacy and security. Vice President JD Vance emphasised the priority of preventing Iran from accessing nuclear weapons.

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News

Oscar winner Robert Duvall dies aged 95 leaving a towering legacy

Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, 95, dies, leaving a legacy that shaped modern cinema with iconic roles.

Published

1 day ago

February 17, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, 95, dies, leaving a legacy that shaped modern cinema with iconic roles.

Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall has died at the age of 95, marking the end of an era for one of Hollywood’s most respected performers. Best known for his role as Tom Hagen in The Godfather, Duvall built a career defined by power, restraint and authenticity on screen.

From early theatre work to standout performances in To Kill A Mockingbird and Apocalypse Now, Duvall became one of the most versatile actors of his generation. He later won the Academy Award for Tender Mercies, cementing his place among cinema’s elite.

Beyond acting, Duvall was also an accomplished director and musician, earning admiration for his dedication to craft and character. His legacy leaves an indelible mark on American film history.

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