Turkey: Anzac Day commemorations in Gallipoli April 25

Event

Commemorative events will take place in the Gallipoli peninsula (Canakkale province) to mark Anzac Day- a day of remembrance in honor of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers - on Thursday, April 25. A heightened security presence is expected around all memorial sites following the arrest of a man suspected of planning an attack targeting Anzac Day commemorations on Monday, April 22. The suspect is reportedly linked to the Islamic State (IS) and the alleged attack was planned in retaliation for the mass shooting at mosques in Christchurch in New Zealand on Friday, March 15.

Context

Observed annually on April 25, Anzac Day is a national memorial holiday in Australia and New Zealand that commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in war. Anzac Day was originally designated to honor the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who participated in the 1915 Battle of Gallipoli during the First World War

Advice

Individuals in Turkey, particularly in Gallipoli, are advised to remain vigilant, report suspicious objects and behavior to the police, follow instructions issued by local authorities and avoid all gatherings as a precaution. Individuals should anticipate transportation disruptions and plan ahead for congestion and delays.