Turkey Detains Nearly 1,900 Amid Protests Over Imamoglu's Arrest

Turkey has rejected what it calls 'prejudiced' international criticism over the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who was jailed pending trial for corruption allegations that his supporters claim are politically motivated. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc defended the government's actions, asserting that the judiciary operates independently and that the gravity of the allegations warranted Imamoglu's arrest. His detention has sparked massive protests across Turkey, resulting in nearly 1,900 arrests, as the opposition accuses President Erdogan of attempting to eliminate a significant electoral rival. Despite the protests, Erdogan has dismissed them as a 'show' and threatened legal repercussions for demonstrators. The situation has led to heightened tensions between Turkey and Western nations, with calls for caution and a reevaluation of diplomatic relations. Amidst this turmoil, Istanbul's municipal council has appointed an interim mayor to maintain governance while Imamoglu awaits trial.