Journalist and activist Adem Ozkose was reportedly choked, removed, and detained by security guards while protesting the presence of BAE Systems at Türkiye’s Saha Expo defense fair in Istanbul.

Ozkose’s protest highlighted the company’s role in supplying arms to Israel, a point of contention amid escalating violence in Gaza.

The Saha Expo, held under the auspices of the Turkish presidency and supported by key ministries, including the National Defense, Industry and Technology, and Trade Ministries, has sparked public debate over Türkiye’s defense partnerships. BAE Systems’ participation at the government-backed exhibition has raised questions about Türkiye’s alignment with international arms manufacturers during a period of heightened regional conflict.

Following Israel's recent attacks on Gaza, Türkiye announced a trade suspension with Israel. Addressing the move, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan noted, “There was a trade volume of $9.5 billion between us. We closed this door by disregarding this trade volume.” Speaking at the BRICS leaders’ summit on Thursday, Erdogan also called for a global arms embargo against Israel, urging the international community to join Türkiye’s stance.

Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to advocating for peace through a “comprehensive arms embargo against Israel” within the United Nations framework. Expressing optimism about growing international support, Erdogan voiced his hope that the “Alliance for Humanity” will bring about an effective resolution and pave the way for lasting peace in the region. (ILKHA)